Realties of St. Charles

05/27/2026

✨ FOR RENT IN THE HEART OF LULING ✨
Spacious and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhouse available for rent in the heart of Luling! This desirable end-unit offers extra privacy, beautiful curb appeal, and plenty of parking.
Features include: • 3 spacious bedrooms
• 1.5 bathrooms
• End-unit location
• Detached 2-car garage
• Ample parking
• Well-kept landscaping
• Convenient location near shopping, dining, and schools
Pets will be considered on a case-by-case basis with an additional non-refundable pet deposit.
Message for rental price, availability, or to schedule a showing!
Realties of St. Charles

MLS # 2559823 – Spacious and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhouse for rent in the heart of Luling! This end-unit home features ample parking, a 2-car garage, and plenty of space to spread o...

03/04/2026

Kori Stock Matherne
9853310331

Realties of St. Charles
https://realtiesofstcharles.com/
Mobile: 5042513014

Spring has a way of making everything feel a little lighter. Longer days, warmer weather, and more time spent at home naturally invite small changes that can make everyday life feel easier and more enjoyable.

Inside, you’ll find ideas to help refresh your home without taking on big projects. From small updates that brighten your space to simple ways to create a smoother connection between indoors and out, these are thoughtful shifts that can make a meaningful difference.

None of this is about perfection or major overhauls. It’s about creating a home that feels comfortable, welcoming, and ready for the season ahead — one that supports how you live day to day.

If reading through this gets you thinking about changes beyond your walls, whether that’s planning future updates, considering a move, or simply wanting a second opinion, I’m always happy to help. If someone you know could use that same kind of guidance, passing along my name is always appreciated.

Kori Matherne

Spring-Ready Home Refresh (Without a Full Remodel)



As winter fades and the days grow longer, many homes feel ready for a refresh. The good news is that it does not take a full remodel to make your space feel brighter and more inviting. Often, a few thoughtful updates are all it takes.
One of the easiest places to begin is with light and color. Swapping heavier throws or darker pillows for lighter fabrics can instantly change the mood of a room. Even small adjustments, like replacing a lampshade or shifting furniture to let in more natural light, can make a noticeable difference.

It also helps to look at the details you see every day. Updating cabinet hardware, refreshing entryway decor, or adding a mirror can help a space feel more current without much effort. Houseplants are another simple way to bring life into your home. Even one or two can add warmth and a sense of renewal that fits naturally with spring.

Finally, take a moment to edit with intention. You do not need to clear everything out. Just creating a little breathing room on countertops or shelves can make your home feel calmer and easier to enjoy.

Spring is a great opportunity to reset your surroundings and create a space that feels refreshed, comfortable, and ready for what’s next.


Easy Indoor-Outdoor Living for Warmer Days



As the weather warms, homes naturally begin to open up. Even without a large yard or patio, creating a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces can make your home feel brighter and more relaxed.

Start by paying attention to light. Keeping windows clear, choosing airy window coverings, and bringing in colors inspired by nature can help blur the line between inside and out. Natural textures like wood, linen, and woven materials also help create that sense of continuity.

If you do have outdoor space, think of it as another part of your living area. A small seating setup, an outdoor rug, or a bit of soft lighting can make patios and balconies feel just as welcoming as indoor rooms. Inside, flexible pieces like stools, trays, or side tables make it easy to move things outside when friends or family stop by.

Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that matter most. Fresh air, greenery, and seasonal scents can change how a space feels. With a few simple adjustments, your home can feel more open and ready to enjoy the warmer days ahead


Everyday Habits That Make a Home Feel More Put-Together



A home that feels put-together is not about being perfect. It is about creating habits that support how you actually live.
One habit that makes a big difference is resetting rooms each day.

Spending just a few minutes clearing surfaces, straightening pillows, or returning items to their place can change the feel of a space right away. These small resets keep clutter from piling up and make your home feel welcoming, even on busy days.

Another helpful habit is giving everyday items a consistent place to land. When keys, bags, and mail have a designated spot, your space naturally feels calmer. It also makes tidying faster and less frustrating.

It can also help to be mindful about what you bring into your home. You may already be doing this without realizing it. Thoughtful choices and occasional editing allow your space to feel balanced instead of crowded.

Over time, these simple habits add up. The result is a home that feels easier to maintain, more intentional, and comfortable to come back to at the end of the day.


Notable, Quotable, Quotes!

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
Lao Tzu

“The ache for home lives in all of us.”
Maya Angelou

“Spring is the time of plans and projects.”
Leo Tolstoy

02/11/2026

February is traditionally a quieter month in real estate; however, quiet should not be mistaken for inactivity. As renowned author Katherine May said, “Winter is not the death of the life cycle, but its crucible.” In other words, quiet times in our lives are the perfect opportunity to seek clarity and make plans for our next steps.

In real estate, this quiet period is often followed by a flood of properties hitting the market, as spring is just around the corner. It’s also a time when home renovations tend to be more popular. For those considering a move or planning updates to their home in the coming months, now is the ideal time to start making arrangements.

Remember, I’m always here between transactions for any real estate-related questions you may have. Whether you need trusted contractor recommendations or advice on home projects, I’d be happy to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Finally, if you know anyone considering a move in the near future, I hope you will think of me and feel comfortable passing along my name. Your continued trust and support are greatly appreciated, and it means the world to me.

Kori Matherne

01/06/2026

Kori Stock Matherne
9853310331

Realties of St. Charles
https://realtiesofstcharles.com/
Mobile: 5042513014


Welcome to the new year, a time for fresh beginnings and mapping out your vision for the months ahead. Have you thought about your goals for 2026 and the steps you'll take to achieve them?

Dreaming is easy & semi; however, the follow-through can be challenging. If that sounds familiar, a little inspiration might be all you need. This month's newsletter offers plenty of ideas to spark your creativity, from the top interior design trends shaping 2026 to a DIY moss wall art piece, and attractive accent wall ideas, so there's plenty of inspiration for how you can add some personality and style to your home to kick off 2026.

Whatever your goals are for the year ahead, whether they involve home renovations, repairs, or moving, you can count on me to help you create a plan for success to turn your goals into reality. Please don't hesitate to reach out, even if you just have questions or need advice.

Here's to a fabulous and fulfilling year ahead!

Kori Matherne

Interior Design Trends Making a Buzz in 2026



Tired of looking at the same old walls? Maybe your home could use a little makeover. If you are considering giving your home a makeover this year, there are a variety of interesting interior design trends making an impact in 2026 that you could try, such as:
Sustainable, eco-friendly materials, like stone, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and upcycled items such as vintage furniture.
Warm and earthy color palettes such as off-whites, eucalyptus green, oiled bronze, terracotta, and soft blues are in vogue. They offer a sense of tranquility and timeless sophistication.
Nature-inspired design, like botanical motifs, houseplants, living walls, and maximization of natural light, which help evoke a calm and organic ambiance.
Handcrafted, artisanal, bold pieces. There’s a renewed appreciation for nostalgia and character of carefully curated handmade items, found treasures, and antiques.
Statement lighting fixtures for their visual interest and focal point qualities.
Functionality for work-life balance, such as with flexible room dividers, convertible furniture, and integrated storage solutions, are increasingly valued for supporting adaptable, harmonious living environments.
Smart technology integration, such as with thermostats, lighting systems, and appliances with smart features. If you are in a condo, you may need to check building compatibility and get condo board approval for some smart home technology.
In essence, this year’s trends are all about leaning into comfort, connection, and charm — perfect for transforming a home into a true haven that reflects both style and substance.


Easy-to-Make Moss Wall Art



Do you want to introduce some lush greenery into your home, minus the upkeep? Then moss wall art may be the answer. Created with preserved moss, in which the natural moisture is replaced with a preservative such as glycerol, it maintains its lush and supple appearance indefinitely, requiring no watering or maintenance. Best of all, it’s easy to make.
The materials can be purchased online or at a craft store. All you need is a wooden frame with backing, a glue gun, preserved moss (such as cushion, mood, sheet, or reindeer varieties), disposable gloves, and, if desired, wood stain or paint for the frame.

Begin by visualizing how you want your moss art to look, considering different moss sizes, textures, and patterns. You can also use hardscape materials like stones or bark, or preserved or artificial flowers to add visual interest. If you wish to stain or paint the frame, complete that step prior to attaching the moss.

When ready to assemble, wear gloves to prevent dye transfer. Tear the moss into smaller pieces to optimize coverage. Apply the glue to the frame backing, then press the moss firmly in place (a paintbrush handle works well to avoid burns).

And voilà! Once all the gaps are filled, you will have a moss wall art that adds organic beauty to any home. To maintain its color and texture, be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.


Spicing Up Your Walls With a Little Accent



When a room appears to lack definition or personality, an accent wall may be just what it needs. An accent wall differs from the others to add contrast, personality, and a focal point.
There are a number of ways to fashion an accent wall, depending on your style. Popular options include:

A solid paint color — easy and affordable.
Decorative wall panels, such as board and batten for a timeless elegance, shiplap for a farmhouse or coastal aesthetic.
Brick or natural stone adds texture and depth and fits modern, rustic, industrial, or biophilic styles.
Limewash has a soft, earthy appearance, a subtle texture, and it’s an eco-friendly choice that imparts an organic and enduring aesthetic.
Wallpaper has regained popularity, and is now available in peel-and-stick varieties, which are simpler to install but less permanent than traditional forms which offer long-term durability but require more intensive application.
Ceramic tiles, available in various colors, patterns, and 3-D options. Perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, thanks to its moisture resistance and durability.
Murals, such as a map or colorful geometric shapes, offer bold designs without overwhelming the room.
A gallery wall, with different-sized framed art prints, photos, or 3-D pieces.
When choosing your accent wall, it is advisable to avoid walls with obstacles such as outlets, doors, and windows. If a room already has a strong focal point, like a fireplace or nook, consider a different wall or room to avoid a chaotic look.


Notable, Quotable, Quotes!

“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.”
Zig Ziglar

“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.”
William Butler

“Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.”
Oprah Winfrey

12/04/2025

Kori Stock Matherne
9853310331

Realties of St. Charles
https://realtiesofstcharles.com/
Mobile: 5042513014

As 2025 draws to a close, it may feel like the ending of one chapter and the beginning of another. Looking back, what parts of your 2025 story did you enjoy the most? What would you have written differently? And as you look ahead, how do you want your 2026 chapter to unfold?

Before the next chapter begins, it can be helpful to pause and reflect on where you’ve been, where you’re headed, and the steps to get there. If you are thinking of including anything real estate-related in your 2026 chapter, whether it’s upgrading your current home, completing repairs, or planning a move, I’m always available with answers, ideas, and insider knowledge to help your plans succeed.

So, here’s to a blank page filled with endless possibilities and opportunity. Whatever your next chapter holds, I hope it brings you happiness, fulfillment, and success. And if your story calls for a seasoned and knowledgeable REALTOR® in the next chapter, I’d be honored to fill that role.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and all the best in your 2026 chapter.

Kori Matherne

Tracking Your Hard-Earned Money



There’s a saying, “whatever you measure, improves.” The same applies to your finances. By tracking your money, you gain clarity on where it goes, helping you spend smarter and save more.
Fortunately, tracking has become more accessible than ever. Most major banks offer financial tracking tools integrated into their online and mobile banking platforms. However, if you want more advanced features, such as cross-account syncing, generating detailed reports, or setting long-term financial goals, you may want to consider a third-party app.

To get started with tracking, review all your account statements to identify patterns. Highlight needs, wants, savings/debts. The “50/30/20 budget” states 50% of expenses should go towards needs, like groceries and mortgage payments, including minimum debt payments, 30 percent of expenses can go towards wants such as dining out, and 20 percent of expenses should go towards savings and debt repayments. Keep an eye out for unused subscriptions or unjustified fees.

Once you can see where your money is spent, create a budget. A spreadsheet or app can help you with this, depending on your preference. Then monitor your spending regularly to ensure that you are staying within your budget and modify it if your income or expenses change. When you start tracking your spending patterns, you foster greater financial awareness and discipline. Over time, this practice can help to reduce debt and achieve your savings goals sooner, perhaps so you can go on a vacation or retire earlier.

Maintaining a ‘Zip in Your Step’



The holiday season is a busy time for many of us, making it hard sometimes to “catch our breath.” Yet, our energy is essential for both getting things done and enjoying life. So, how can you infuse “capital E” energy into your day, besides the classic cup of joe?
Short bursts of physical activity, be it a short walk outside, or a quick set of squats, push-ups, or jumping jacks.
Catch some sunlight, both by being outside and opening up your window coverings, especially in the morning, which releases cortisol, to help you feel more energized.

Do something entirely different from your current task and then go back to it.

Take deep breaths and stretch to improve oxygen flow to your brain and muscles. This will increase your energy and help you feel more alert.

Eat a snack that has protein, fiber, and/or complex carbohydrates to best sustain your energy. For example, Greek yogurt and berries, nuts, or bananas and peanut butter.

Drink water throughout the day. Dehydration can make you tired and sluggish.

Listen to music. This can elevate your mood with the release of dopamine and endorphins, leading to increased alertness and motivation. Bonus: Sing along, which releases more dopamine and endorphins, helping increase energy.

Take a 15 to 20-minute power nap to restore alertness and improve performance.

These tips are great for a quick boost, but they’re no substitute for the fundamentals. Nothing can replace the old standbys for feeling energetic, such as prioritizing sleep, eating healthy foods, limiting alcohol and caffeine, avoiding smoking, and managing stress.


Hazard-Free Holidays



The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it also brings unique safety risks. Here are some simple, yet important reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe this holiday season:
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly.
Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires or loose connections, ensure they’re rated for indoor or outdoor use, and turn them off when sleeping or away.
Keep candles away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
Use flame-resistant decorations and avoid tinsel if you have kids or pets, as it’s a choking hazard.
Keep breakable decorations, matches, and lighters out of reach of kids and pets.
If you are getting a live tree, choose a fresh one, water it daily, keep it away from heat sources, secure it well, and dispose of it right after the holidays.
If you will be away, make your home appear lived-in and maintained (e.g., mail brought in, lights on at night (timers are helpful for this)). Consider having a trusted family member or friend house sit, as well as a smart home security system if you don’t have one, to monitor your home from your phone.
Avoid placing wires under carpets or furniture, as they may overheat and be a tripping hazard.
Use back burners when possible and heat oil slowly to avoid burns. In the event of a grease fire, immediately turn off the heat and cover the flames with a lid or cookie sheet; never use water.
With a little precaution, you can keep your holidays joyful, safe, and stress-free. Here’s to a happy and hazard-free holiday season!

11/05/2025

Kori Stock Matherne
9853310331
Realties of St. Charles
https://realtiesofstcharles.com/
Mobile: 5042513014

In a world where we’re constantly plugged in, scrolling through social media, streaming podcasts, Googling answers, and juggling conversations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, misinformed, or confused. And with the sheer abundance of content, you can easily become inundated, real estate information included.

Even when you’re reading trustworthy real estate news, national headlines do not always reflect what’s happening in your neighborhood. Real estate markets are highly local and influenced by factors like the local economy, housing supply, and migration patterns. In other words, every local market has its own “climate,” and to understand it, you need a local forecast.

That’s where I come in. Think of me as your local REALTOR® “meteorologist,” here to tune out the noise and provide you with clear, relevant, and timely insight into your market. I have access to the latest data and trends, tailored specifically to your area.

If you have any questions or are looking for advice about your real estate investment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime. I’d be happy to help.

Spreading Holiday Magic at Home



As November arrives, many people begin to consider decorating for the upcoming holiday season. If you’re looking for inspiration and guidance to create a festive atmosphere in your home, here are a few tips to get you started.
Declutter First — Start by cleaning and decluttering to make room for your décor and avoid a chaotic look.
Create a Cohesive Look — Stick to a cohesive color and style scheme for a harmonious feel. Popular palettes include red, green, and gold; blue and silver; or warm earth tones. Styles range from minimalist to country chic, nature-inspired, vintage, eclectic, and more.
Lighting is Key — For lighting, use soft, warm LED lighting to create a cozy atmosphere, layering overhead lights with accents like fairy lights (try mason jars), lanterns, or candles (real or battery-operated). White lights convey a clean, elegant feel, while colored lights can be fun and nostalgic, so choose the one that best fits your style.
Textures and Nature — With seasonal décor pieces, incorporate different textures and natural elements. For example, a bowl of pinecones, soft, knitted throws, velvety accent cushions, rattan reindeer, seasonal floral arrangements, etc.
Seasonal Scents — Infuse your home with seasonal scents like pine, vanilla, peppermint, cinnamon, and orange to set the tone and use real garlands, wreaths, and trees, using diffusers, candles, or stovetop simmering with water, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and cloves for a warm, spicy aroma.
Personal Touches — Make it special with personal touches like family holiday photos, cards, and handmade décor from past years.
Keep in mind that if you live in a condo, be sure to check your building rules about natural trees, garland, wreaths, and balcony decorations. Each building has different bylaws.

Happy decorating and enjoy the season!


A Living Room to Envy



If your living room feels more like an afterthought than an inviting, well-designed space, it may be time to give it a fresh start.
Start by browsing interior design websites or magazines for inspiration. Select a cohesive color palette and clearly define your design style. Think also about your lifestyle when making choices. For example, a white sofa may not be ideal if you have pets or kids. Collect images of all the pieces you’d like to use and ensure they complement one another in both style and scale. Remember to measure before you buy. Consider the layout of your furniture to support both functionality and flow. Arrange pieces to encourage easy movement and conversation. Space permitting, place furniture away from walls to create the illusion of a more expansive room.

Choose a sofa that fits the room without dominating it, and for the area rug, pick one large enough so furniture sits at least partially on it, but avoid anything that stretches wall-to-wall.

Layer lighting for both practicality and ambiance, combining overhead lighting with floor or table lamps, sconces, and pendants to add depth and dimension.

Finish your makeover with accessories that enhance your color scheme and style, incorporating textures, such as faux fur throws or pillows, woven baskets, wood accents, and houseplants. For walls, consider a mirror to brighten and expand your space, a large-scale artwork, a curated gallery wall, or a small grouping of art.

If you have any doubts about hanging art or curtains, consider hiring an interior designer; misplacement can distract from even the best-designed interiors.

Keeping Your Cleaning Tools Squeaky Clean



When it comes to cleaning, we tend to focus on obvious areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and floors. However, it’s just as important to clean the tools we rely on to do the job. Neglecting them can spread dirt and bacteria rather than eliminate it. Here’s a quick guide to keeping your cleaning tools in top shape:
Vacuum cleaners — Empty the bin after every use, clean the filter every 1 to 2 months with cold water, and deep clean the roller and attachments monthly in warm, soapy water.
Toilet brushes — Scrub with a disinfectant such as Pine-Sol after each use, air-dry between the seat and toilet, and add a few drops of disinfectant to the holder, changing it every few days. Replace it annually.
Sponges — Disinfect daily by microwaving for 1 minute while damp (*use a different method if it contains metallic parts). Replace every 1 to 2 weeks.
Cleaning rags — Wash after every use on a hot water cycle to eliminate germs and bacteria.
Dish brushes — Soak weekly for 1 hour in 1 cup of distilled vinegar with a drop of dish soap and rinse or run through the dishwasher (if safe). Replace every 3 to 6 months or when bristles fray.
Brooms — Scrub monthly with warm, soapy water and rinse.
Mops — Rinse after each use, and after every few uses, machine wash if possible or disinfect for 15 minutes by soaking in warm water and 1 cup of distilled vinegar. For cotton mops, use bleach instead of vinegar and rinse well.
Finally, always let cleaning tools air-dry — because nothing clean should have a bad smell.


Notable, Quotable, Quotes!

“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”
Maya Angelou

“Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises.”
Demosthenes

“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.”
Zig Ziglar

10/25/2025

10/04/2025

NEW LISTING ALERT!!

MLS # 2524778 – Beautiful 3-Bedroom, 2-Bath Home on a Quiet Dead-End Road This nearly new home (just under 3 years old) offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and peace. Featuring 3 spacious...