Keeping Cool During a Las Vegas Summer

7 Ways to Beat the Heat

For some people, the worst part about Las Vegas is the brutally hot summers. With temperatures regularly exceeding 110 degrees in the summer months, its no wonder why people will do anything to cool off. Normally, this is the time where community pools and waterparks would come in to give a quick way to cool off. Both Wet N' Wild and Cowabunga Bay are open again to the public, and many communities are reopening their pools. However, some people may be uncomfortable going back out to these places with the pandemic so fresh in our minds. If that's the case, here are 7 ways to beat the summer heat while at home!


Block the Sun:
The easiest way to keep you (and your house) cool is to keep as much heat out as possible. One of the most effective ways to do this is by simply closing curtains and/or blinds during the day when the sun is at its strongest. This can be further improved upon by using curtains that are white on the window-facing side. This can reflect light and further reduce the amount of heat trying to get in your home.


DIY A/C:
Air conditioning units typically run nonstop during the summer in Vegas, but sometimes that isn't enough. If you need some additional cooling in a small area make a DIY A/C by putting a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the ice melts and evaporates, it will cool the air being blown by the fan.


Fans:
Speaking of fans, they also help keep you cool without using a lot of power or using an expensive cooling system. In the summer, ceiling fans should rotate counter-clockwise. When they rotate this way, they push air down, creating a cooling breeze. Standing fans are also helpful as they help circulate air. The circulation helps keep things relatively cool.


Turn Off Appliances:
Electrical appliances that are left on generate heat that most people may not even be aware of! When you leave a computer, laptop, TV, game console, or any other moderately sized appliances on, they produce heat that will make it harder to keep your house cool.


Stay Hydrated:
One of the biggest tricks the desert plays is making you realize you aren't sweating. Especially when exploring the Strip or hiking through Red Rock during the hot summer months. Whenever you venture out, or even when staying inside, staying hydrated helps your body keep itself cool.


Eat Light:
What is put into your body has a very large impact on the way you feel. Obviously, drinking and eating cold foods helps keep you cool, but also the kind of food is important as well. If trying to stay cool, stay away from heavy, fatty foods such as fast food. Instead, try to eat fruits and veggies, along with other food items that contain large amounts of water. These foods will refresh you, hydrate you, and most importantly, keep you feeling cool.


Think Cool:
While it may sound silly, thinking about colder climes, reading books or watching movies set in snowy environments, and other "cold thoughts" have been scientifically proven to help reduce the feeling of heat/warmth. Just by taking your mind off the sizzling asphalt and the heat-wave mirages you see over the desert, your body will feel cooler.

Why Las Vegas HOA Fees May Be More Affordable Than You Think

September 15, 2025
What Do HOAs Do and Why They Matter Homeowners associations (HOAs) manage common areas, enforce neighborhood rules, and provide amenities like pools, clubhouses, and security. While they require monthly fees, benefits often include better-maintained neighborhoods, enhanced amenities, and stronger property values. In Las Vegas, HOA coverage is common and rising. According to Realtor.com® - by early 2025, 77.1% of listings had HOA fees , with a median of $118 , making Las Vegas one of the cities with the highest prevalence of HOA-managed homes—but still relatively affordable compared to places like Edwards, CO ($525) or North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($310). This places Las Vegas seventh nationally for the prevalence of HOA-controlled listings. While the city has a high rate of HOA-managed properties, the $118 median monthly fee is comparatively low. HOA fees vary based on: Location & Amenities Home Type: Condos typically cost more than single-family homes. Rising Costs: Inflation and underfunded reserves can lead to sudden increases. Bottom Line: Understanding HOA fees in Las Vegas helps homebuyers budget effectively and avoid surprises. Despite the high prevalence of HOA-managed properties, Las Vegas remains more affordable than many other metro areas!  Source: Realtor.com, Homeowners Associations 2024

Las Vegas Ranked #9 for Diverse Food Scenes in the U.S.

September 8, 2025
When people think of food diversity in America, their minds usually go straight to New York City. But according to a recent study highlighted by the esteemed culinary school, Escoffier, the Big Apple doesn’t take the top spot. Instead, San Francisco claimed first place — praised for its bustling variety of cuisines and holding the title for the highest density of restaurants per capita among major U.S. cities. What’s even more exciting for us locals? Las Vegas earned the #9 spot on the list of the most diverse food cities in the country. Why Vegas Stands Out Las Vegas may be known worldwide for its neon lights and entertainment, but the dining scene is what keeps both tourists and residents hungry for more. From celebrity chef–driven restaurants on the Strip to hidden neighborhood gems serving authentic global flavors, Vegas has transformed into a true culinary destination. While seven of the top 10 cities named in the study were coastal (a trend Escoffier notes is tied to cultural diversity and a robust restaurant scene), Las Vegas proves that you don’t have to sit on the coast to experience world-class variety. Our city thrives on international influence — with dining options that range from Korean barbecue and Italian trattorias to Thai street food, upscale steakhouses, and plant-based fine dining. A Foodie Destination on the Rise Being ranked in the top 10 isn’t just a nod to the Strip’s luxury restaurants, but also to the everyday spots that locals love. With new eateries opening regularly, the Vegas dining scene continues to evolve and surprise. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, Las Vegas offers something for every craving — proving once again that this city is more than just an entertainment capital. It’s a place where cultures, flavors, and creativity come together to make the dining experience as dynamic as the city itself.

The Power of Gratitude in Building Strong Business Relationships

September 3, 2025
In business, one truth always stands out: no one succeeds alone. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a large organization, your success is built on the connections you make. And one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to strengthen those relationships is through gratitude. At McKenna Property Management, we’ve made gratitude a core part of our culture from the very beginning. Our owner and broker, Jenni McKenna, personally hand-delivers gifts to some of our VIP agents every single month . While it may sound like a small gesture, it makes a big difference. These thoughtful touches show our VIP Agents how much we value their trust in us, collaboration, and hard work. But it’s not just about the gifts. Gratitude comes in many forms—thank-you cards, handwritten notes, or even a quick phone call to say “we appreciate you.” What matters most is the consistency and authenticity behind the gesture. Over the years, these small acts of appreciation have helped us build trust, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships that go beyond a simple business transaction. By showing genuine appreciation, we’ve created strong bonds with clients and agents alike, and those connections have allowed McKenna Property Management to grow into what it is today. If you’re a business owner or professional, here’s our tip: make gratitude part of your business strategy. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—even the simplest “thank you” can strengthen relationships and open the door to new opportunities. At the end of the day, business isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. And people remember how you make them feel. 💙