🏡 Golden Crusts & Dream Homes: Honey Butter Glazed Biscuits and the Sweet Life of Real Estate

By Lubbock & South Plains Realtor, Laurie Rodriguez

There’s something magical about the scent of fresh biscuits rising in the oven—warm, flaky, golden brown, and kissed with a drizzle of honey butter. It’s that feeling of comfort and care that makes a house feel like home. And when you’re in the market for a new place, that same sweet balance of function and warmth is exactly what I help my clients find.

Whether you're whipping up weekend brunch or opening the front door to your forever home, let’s make sure both are filled with joy, flavor, and a little golden glow.

Honey Butter Glazed Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp sugar

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)

• ¾ cup whole milk or buttermilk

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

• 2 tbsp honey

• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional for warmth)

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

2. Cut the Butter: Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Milk & Stir: Pour in the milk and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Roll & Cut: Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently pat it down, and fold over once or twice. Roll out to about ½ inch thick. Cut into circles using a biscuit cutter or a glass.

5. Bake to Golden: Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and fluffy.

6. Glaze with Sweetness: While warm, brush biscuits generously with melted honey butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.

🏠 Real Estate That Feels Like Home

Just like these honey butter biscuits, your home should feel warm, inviting, and made with love. Whether it’s a charming starter home or the forever place you’ve dreamed of, I’m here to guide you with care, attention, and a little sweetness along the way.

💡 Real Estate Tip:

Comfort sells - Buyers are drawn to homes that evoke warmth—think natural light, cozy breakfast nooks, and soft, welcoming paint tones. These small details create emotional connections that make buyers want to stay.

🏞 Why the South Plains Feels Like Family

Lubbock and the South Plains aren’t just a place—they’re a way of life. It’s the neighbor who brings over fresh biscuits, the front porch that welcomes every season, and the homes filled with love and laughter. When you’re ready to find your sweet spot, I’ll help you get there.

Communities We Proudly Serve

Laurie Rodriguez and Key & Slate Real Estate Group proudly serve: Lubbock, Abernathy, Brownfield, Buffalo Springs, Crosbyton, Denver City, Farwell, Floydada, Hale Center, Lamesa, Levelland, Littlefield, Muleshoe, New Deal, New Home, Olton, Plains, Plainview, Post, Ralls, Ransom Canyon, Seagraves, Seminole, Silverton, Slaton, Snyder, Spur, Sudan, Sundown, Tahoka, Tulia, and Wolfforth.

Discover More with Laurie Rodriguez & Key & Slate Real Estate Group

🔹 LaurieRodriguez-KeyandSlate.com – Browse homes and meet your South Plains real estate expert.

🔹 LainieEilenberger.com – Discover listings, lifestyle blogs, and market updates.

🔹 Key & Slate on Keller Williams – Find your next home, and meet the team behind the magic.

🔹 One Ford Road Community – Explore elegant homes in Lubbock’s most desirable neighborhood.

🔹 Lainie on YouTube – Watch home tours, get tips, and see what’s hot in West Texas real estate.

✨ Let’s Bake Up Something Beautiful

Your dream home, like a warm biscuit, should be made with love, intention, and a little extra honey on top. Whether you're a first-time buyer or making your next move, I’m here to make it sweet, simple, and full of Southern charm.

📞 Reach out today—and let’s make your real estate journey as satisfying as a golden biscuit fresh from the oven.

Laurie Rodriguez brings Southern charm to the kitchen and the closing table—baking honey butter glazed biscuits in her West Texas home.

Finding the Perfect Home & the Power of Fresh Trim Paint

By Lubbock and South Plains Realtor, Laurie Rodriguez

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference—like a bold lipstick, a fresh haircut, or just the right accessory. In the world of West Texas homes, the trim is that final detail that frames the beauty of your house. Whether you’re preparing to list, just bought your dream place, or are refreshing your curb appeal, a new exterior trim color can completely transform your home’s first impression.

Let’s dive into how painting your trim can elevate your home’s look, boost its value, and even increase buyer interest if you're planning to sell.

Why Trim Matters in West Texas Homes 🏡🎨

In the hot, dusty, sunny climate of Lubbock and the South Plains, paint does more than decorate—it protects. Your home’s trim takes a beating, especially around windows, doors, eaves, and fascia boards. Keeping it clean, bold, and updated is one of the simplest ways to give your home a fresh look.

✨ Boosts Curb Appeal – The right contrast makes your home pop from the street.

💰 Increases Home Value – Fresh paint signals care and quality to buyers.

🌞 Reflects Style & Personality – Your trim can be classic, bold, or subtle—just like you.

🧰 Protects from the Elements – Paint helps seal wood and trim from West Texas sun, wind, and moisture.

How to Choose the Right Trim Color (The Right Way!) ✅🎨

1. Work With Your Home’s Style

Is your home modern, farmhouse, ranch, or traditional?

• Classic combos: White trim on red brick, soft grays with dark charcoal, or black trim on white siding.

• Bold combos: Navy blue with bright white trim, sage green with cream, or beige siding with black trim.

2. Use Color Theory to Your Advantage

• Lighter trim makes a home feel bigger and more open.

• Darker trim adds definition and sophistication.

• Match undertones—cool grays with cool whites, warm taupes with warm creams.

3. Don’t Forget the Front Door

The front door and trim don’t have to match, but they should coordinate. Want a modern pop? Try black, deep green, or a rustic red.

4. Consider Longevity & Local Trends

In dusty or windy areas, lighter colors hide dirt better. Stick with neutrals if you plan to sell within a year or two. Want to stand out? Just make sure the trim color works with the whole house—not just the paint chip.

5. Sample Before You Commit

Paint a small section and view it at different times of day. West Texas light can make colors look different at sunrise, noon, and sunset!

What Not to Do When Repainting Trim 🚫🎨

• 🚫 Don’t Skip Cleaning – Always power wash or clean before painting.

• 🚫 Don’t Paint Over Peeling Trim – Scrape and sand before applying primer.

• 🚫 Don’t Use Interior Paint Outside – It won’t hold up to weather.

• 🚫 Don’t Go Too Trendy – Keep it stylish, but not so wild it hurts resale.

• 🚫 Don’t Skip the Details – Garage trim, porch rails, and window frames matter too.

Real Estate & the Trim That Sells 💡💵

Buyers start judging a home before they even walk through the door—and if your trim is cracked, faded, or clashing, they notice. On the flip side, clean and coordinated trim gives your house a polished, well-loved feel that can tip the scales in your favor.

Real Estate Tip:

Thinking about selling? Fresh exterior trim is one of the cheapest upgrades with the highest visual impact. It photographs beautifully, and buyers love seeing signs of recent maintenance and care.

Why West Texas Homes Deserve a Refresh

In the Lubbock and South Plains region, wind and sun wear down paint quickly. That’s why a trim refresh every few years can keep your home protected, stylish, and valuable—whether you’re living in it or getting ready to list.

Communities We Proudly Serve

Key & Slate Real Estate Group proudly serves Lubbock and these beautiful South Plains communities: Abernathy, Brownfield, Buffalo Springs, Crosbyton, Denver City, Farwell, Floydada, Hale Center, Lamesa, Levelland, Littlefield, Muleshoe, New Deal, New Home, Olton, Plains, Plainview, Post, Ralls, Ransom Canyon, Seagraves, Seminole, Silverton, Slaton, Snyder, Spur, Sudan, Sundown, Tahoka, Tulia, and Wolfforth.

Discover More with Key & Slate Real Estate Group

🔹 LaurieRodriguez-KeyandSlate.com – Real estate with heart and hustle in Lubbock and the South Plains.

🔹 LainieEilenberger.com – Explore Lubbock and West Texas real estate listings, tips, and resources.

🔹 Key & Slate Real Estate Group on Keller Williams – Meet our team and browse current homes for sale.

🔹 One Ford Road Community – Discover luxury homes in one of Lubbock’s most desirable neighborhoods.

🔹 Lainie Eilenberger on YouTube – Tour homes, learn about the market, and get expert advice.

Your Home, Your Style, Your Statement

Whether you're looking to add charm, increase value, or just fall in love with your home all over again, a new trim color might be the little change that makes a big impact. I’d love to help you find a home that’s full of character—or help you sell yours for what it’s really worth.

📩 Reach out today—let’s make your next move as bold and beautiful as your trim!

Realtor Laurie Rodriguez adds charm and value one brushstroke at a time—because fresh trim paint speaks volumes to buyers.

Finding the Perfect Home & the Bold Flavor of Spicy Chorizo Baked Ziti

By Lubbock and South Plains Realtor, Laurie Rodriguez

What makes a house feel like home? Is it the vibrant flavors simmering in the kitchen, the sounds of laughter echoing through the hallways, or the cozy corner where you sip coffee and plan your dreams? Just like a bubbling dish of spicy chorizo baked ziti—where zesty Mexican heat meets classic Italian comfort—the perfect home is where cultures, traditions, and people come together in a space that just feels right. Whether you’re on the hunt for your first home or your forever one, I’m here to help you find it—one bold bite (and tour) at a time.

Spicy Chorizo Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb ziti pasta

• 1 lb Mexican chorizo

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or fresh basil (or both!)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan

• 1 egg

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti until al dente. Drain and set aside.

   
   

Make the Sauce:

1. In a skillet, cook chorizo until browned. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.

2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

3. Add chopped cilantro or basil and remove from heat.

   
   

Prepare the Cheese Mix:

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and egg. Stir until smooth.

   
   

Assemble & Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. In a greased 9x13" dish, layer half the pasta, half the chorizo sauce, and half the cheese mixture. Repeat.

3. Top with extra mozzarella and parmesan if desired.

4. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

   
   

Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve up a slice of fusion comfort that’s as unforgettable as finding the one.

Real Estate & The Flavor of Home

At Key & Slate Real Estate Group, I believe your home should reflect you—bold, welcoming, and full of flavor. Whether you're drawn to open-concept kitchens made for entertaining or serene bedrooms perfect for winding down, I’m here to help you find a place that’s as vibrant as your lifestyle.

Real Estate Tip:

Like any great recipe, a home search should be well-balanced. Consider elements like layout, school districts, neighborhood culture, and future resale value. Having a Realtor who listens and leads makes all the difference—and I’d be honored to be that person for you.

Why the South Plains Feels Like Home

From block parties to homemade tamales, life in Lubbock and the South Plains is steeped in culture and connection. It’s a place where traditions are shared, homes are cherished, and community matters. Whether you’re drawn to downtown charm or wide-open views, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you here.

Communities We Proudly Serve

Key & Slate Real Estate Group proudly serves Lubbock and these incredible South Plains communities: Abernathy, Brownfield, Buffalo Springs, Crosbyton, Denver City, Farwell, Floydada, Hale Center, Lamesa, Levelland, Littlefield, Muleshoe, New Deal, New Home, Olton, Plains, Plainview, Post, Ralls, Ransom Canyon, Seagraves, Seminole, Silverton, Slaton, Snyder, Spur, Sudan, Sundown, Tahoka, Tulia, and Wolfforth.

Discover More with Key & Slate Real Estate Group

🔹 LaurieRodriguez-KeyandSlate.com – Real estate with heart and hustle in Lubbock and the South Plains.

🔹 LainieEilenberger.com – Explore Lubbock and West Texas real estate listings, tips, and resources.

🔹 Key & Slate Real Estate Group on Keller Williams – Meet our team and browse current homes for sale.

🔹 One Ford Road Community – Discover luxury homes in one of Lubbock’s most desirable neighborhoods.

🔹 Lainie Eilenberger on YouTube – Tour homes, learn about the market, and get expert advice.

Your Home, Your Style, Your Future

Your home should be like the best kind of fusion meal—rich in tradition, bursting with personality, and completely you. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, let’s make your journey unforgettable—and maybe swap a few recipes along the way.

📩 Reach out today—let’s stir up something amazing for your future!

Bold flavor meets cozy living—Spicy Chorizo Baked Ziti served hot in a South Plains kitchen, just like the dream homes Laurie helps you find!