Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx

Are you a resident of Starcreek in Allen, Texas, and contemplating ways to enhance your home security without a substantial financial outlay? You’re not alone. Many homeowners in this desirable community are seeking effective solutions that balance peace of mind with their budgets. Fortunately, achieving robust home security in Starcreek doesn’t necessitate extravagant spending. With a strategic approach and an understanding of available options, you can significantly fortify your home’s defenses, making it a less appealing target for potential intruders and a safer haven for your family.

This article aims to guide you through the process of securing your Starcreek residence affordably. We will explore various aspects of home security, from preventative measures you can implement yourself to cost-effective technological solutions. By the end, you should have a clearer picture of how to invest wisely in your home’s safety, ensuring your peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Before you can effectively secure your home, it’s crucial to understand where its weaknesses lie. This isn’t about dwelling on hypotheticals; it’s about a pragmatic assessment of your Starcreek property. Think of it as a reconnaissance mission for your own residence. You need to identify potential entry points and understand the common tactics employed by opportunistic criminals.

Performing a Home Security Walkthrough

Begin by conducting a thorough walk around your property, both inside and out. This should be done during daylight and, if possible, at different times of the day or evening.

H4: Exterior Assessment: The First Line of Defense

Doors and Windows: Examine every exterior door and window. Are they solid? Do they have sturdy frames? Are the locks in good working order? Look for any signs of wear and tear that might indicate compromised integrity. In Starcreek, with its mix of established homes and newer constructions, the age and quality of doors and windows can vary. Older, hollow-core doors are significantly less secure than solid wood or metal ones.
Lock Integrity: Pay close attention to the deadbolts. Are they long enough, at least one inch, to effectively engage the strike plate in the door frame? Are there any gaps between the door and the frame that could allow for prying? Even a small gap can be exploited by a determined individual.
Garage Door Security: Your garage often presents a convenient, albeit vulnerable, entry point. Is your garage door opener secure? Are there any visible gaps or weak points in the door itself? Consider the door from the garage into your home – is it as secure as your main exterior doors?
Landscaping and Visibility: Walk around your home’s exterior with a critical eye. Are there any large bushes or trees close to windows or doors that could provide cover for someone attempting to gain entry? Overgrown landscaping can effectively create blind spots for you and inviting hiding places for criminals.
Lighting: Assess your exterior lighting. Are key access points, like the front door, back door, and garage, well-lit? Poor lighting is a significant deterrent signal for burglars. Consider motion-activated lights as a cost-effective way to illuminate dark areas.

H4: Interior Assessment: Strengthening Internal Weaknesses

Second-Story Access: Don’t overlook upper-level windows. Are they easily accessible from the ground? While less common for primary entry, they can be an alternative route if easily reached.
Basement Access: If you have a basement, its entry points are as critical as any other. Are basement windows secure and reinforced?
Internal Doors: While less of a concern for external threats, consider the security of internal doors, particularly if you have separate living areas or a garage entry.

Identifying Common Residential Security Threats in Starcreek

Understanding the types of threats you might face in Starcreek, or any suburban community, is key to tailoring your security measures.

H4: Opportunistic Burglary

The most common threat is likely opportunistic burglary. This involves individuals who target homes that appear to be easy targets. They look for unlocked doors, windows, and properties that lack visible security measures.

H4: Package Theft

In many suburban areas, including Starcreek, package theft from porches has become a growing concern. While not a home invasion, it’s still a violation and a financial loss.

H4: Vandalism

While less severe than burglary, vandalism can still occur. This might involve graffiti, damage to property, or other forms of mischief.

Evaluating Your Current Security Measures

Before investing in new solutions, take stock of what you already have in place.

Existing Locks: What type of locks do you currently have on your doors? Are they standard doorknob locks or do you have deadbolts?
Alarm System (if any): Do you currently have a home security alarm system, even a basic one? What is its condition and functionality?
Security Cameras (if any): Have you previously considered or installed any form of surveillance?
Neighborhood Watch: Are you aware of any active neighborhood watch programs in Starcreek? These can be a valuable, often low-cost, resource.

By thoroughly understanding your home’s vulnerabilities and the potential threats, you can make informed decisions about where to allocate your security budget most effectively. This initial assessment is the bedrock of any successful and affordable home security strategy.

If you’re looking for effective and budget-friendly home security solutions in Starcreek, Allen, TX, you might find valuable insights in a related article discussing home security systems in Aurora, Illinois. This article provides an overview of various security options that can enhance your home safety without breaking the bank. To learn more about these systems and how they can be tailored to fit your needs, check out the article here: Home Security System Service in Aurora, Illinois.

Enhancing Physical Security: The Foundation of Affordable Protection

Before diving into technology, it’s essential to establish a strong physical security foundation. This involves reinforcing your home’s entry points and making them inherently more resistant to forced entry. These are often the most budget-friendly and impactful initial steps you can take.

Fortifying Doors: Your First Line of Defense

Your doors are the primary means of ingress and egress, making them prime targets for intruders. Strengthening them should be a priority.

H4: Upgrading Locks: Beyond the Basic

Deadbolts are Essential: If you don’t already have deadbolts on all exterior doors, installing them is one of the most crucial and cost-effective security upgrades. Look for deadbolts that have a throw bolt of at least one inch and a hardened steel cylinder to resist drilling. ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts are generally recommended for residential use. You can often find reputable brands at hardware stores for under $50.
Reinforcing Strike Plates: The strike plate is the metal piece on the door frame that the deadbolt locks into. Standard strike plates are often secured with short screws that can easily pull out of the wooden frame. Replacing these with a heavy-duty, reinforced strike plate secured with at least 3-inch screws that go deep into the wall stud is a significant upgrade. This makes it much harder to kick in the door. This is a DIY-friendly project that costs very little for materials.
Door Frame Reinforcement: For doors that are particularly vulnerable, consider reinforcing the entire door frame. This can involve adding metal reinforcement plates or even replacing the frame entirely if it’s significantly deteriorated. While more involved, it offers substantial protection.

H4: Door Window Security

Reinforce Glass Panes: If your doors have glass panels, consider reinforcing them. Security film can be applied to existing glass to make it shatter-resistant, preventing easy breakage. This is a relatively inexpensive option compared to replacing the entire door.
Peepholes: Ensure all exterior doors have a wide-angle peephole. This allows you to see who is outside without opening the door, a simple yet vital security measure.

Securing Windows: Closing Potential Entry Points

Windows, especially those on the ground floor, are another common point of entry for burglars.

H4: Window Locks and Reinforcements

Additional Window Locks: Many standard windows come with basic latches. Adding secondary locking mechanisms, such as window security bars, window wedges, or keyed window locks, provides an extra layer of security. For sash windows, consider window stops or restrictors that allow the window to be opened slightly for ventilation but prevent it from opening wide enough for entry.
Window Security Film: Similar to doors, applying security film to ground-floor windows can significantly deter break-ins by making the glass harder to break.
Reinforcing Basement Windows: Basement windows are often overlooked but can be an easy target. Consider installing window bars or grates for added security. Ensure they are designed to allow for emergency egress if needed.

Strengthening Garage Security: A Common Weakness

The garage often provides a direct entry into your home, making its security paramount.

H4: Garage Door Opener Security

Rolling Codes: Ensure your garage door opener uses rolling code technology. This means the code changes with each use, making it much harder for thieves to “scan” and capture your code. If your opener is older, consider upgrading it.
Manual Lock: Even with a secure opener, consider a manual slide lock or bolt that you can engage from the inside to prevent the garage door from being opened remotely. This is especially useful when you are away for extended periods.

H4: Securing the Interior Garage Door

Solid Core Door: The door leading from your garage into your home should ideally be a solid core door, just like your main exterior doors. If it’s a hollow-core door, consider upgrading or reinforcing it.
Deadbolt Lock: Ensure this door has a robust deadbolt lock that is properly installed and secured.

Deters Visible Security Measures: The Power of Presence

Sometimes, the mere presence of security measures can dissuade potential criminals.

H4: Lighting as a Deterrent

Motion-Sensing Lights: Install motion-sensing lights in strategic locations around your home, particularly near entry points, pathways, and the garage. These lights not only deter intruders but also provide visibility for you and your family. Many affordable, solar-powered options are available that require no complex wiring.
Consistent Exterior Lighting: Ensure all pathways and the front and back yards are adequately lit during the evening hours. A dark property can signal an unoccupied or vulnerable home.

By focusing on these fundamental physical security enhancements, you create a more formidable barrier against potential threats. These are often the overlooked heroes of an affordable home security plan, providing significant protection for a relatively low cost.

Leveraging Smart Home Technology for Affordable Security

The term “smart home” might conjure images of exorbitant costs, but in reality, many smart home devices offer affordable and effective security solutions for residents of Starcreek. These technologies can extend your awareness, provide evidence, and even automate certain security actions.

Smart Doorbells: Seeing Who’s at Your Door

Smart doorbells have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer a convenient way to monitor your front porch and screen visitors.

H4: Features and Benefits

Live Video Feed: Most smart doorbells provide a live video feed to your smartphone, allowing you to see who is at your door from anywhere. This is invaluable for package deliveries or when you’re not home.
Two-Way Audio: You can communicate with visitors through the doorbell’s built-in speaker and microphone. This allows you to greet expected guests or deter unexpected visitors without opening the door.
Motion Detection Alerts: Many offer motion detection capabilities, sending you alerts when activity is detected in front of your door, even if no one rings the bell. This can help identify suspicious loitering.
Affordable Options: While high-end models exist, many reputable brands offer smart doorbells in the $100-$200 range, often with optional cloud storage plans that are reasonably priced. Look for deals and sales to further reduce the cost.

H4: Installation and Connectivity

DIY Installation: Many smart doorbells are designed for easy DIY installation, often replacing your existing doorbell. Some connect wirelessly, while others may require basic hardwiring.
Wi-Fi Reliance: Ensure you have a stable home Wi-Fi network, as smart doorbells rely on it to function.

Affordable Security Cameras: Visual Deterrence and Evidence

Security cameras can provide invaluable visual documentation and act as a significant deterrent.

H4: Wireless and Wired Options

Wireless Cameras: Wireless security cameras are a popular choice for their ease of installation and flexibility. Many use Wi-Fi to connect to your home network and stream video to your smartphone or cloud storage. Look for cameras with decent night vision capabilities.
Wired Cameras: While requiring more installation effort, wired cameras (often connected via Ethernet) can offer more reliable performance and higher resolution video quality.
Bundled Systems: Many manufacturers offer affordable starter kits that include multiple cameras, a central hub, and cloud storage for a single upfront cost, which can be more economical than purchasing cameras individually.

H4: Placement and Effectiveness

Strategic Placement: Position cameras to cover key entry points: front door, back door, garage, and any vulnerable windows. Consider placing cameras high enough to avoid easy tampering but low enough to capture identifiable facial features.
Motion-Activated Recording: Opt for cameras that offer motion-activated recording, which saves storage space and only records when there is activity.
Local vs. Cloud Storage: Decide whether you prefer local storage (e.g., SD card in the camera) or cloud storage. Cloud storage offers off-site backup but usually involves a recurring subscription fee. Many affordable systems offer a free tier for basic cloud storage.

Smart Sensors: Detecting Intrusions Early

Smart sensors are small, wireless devices that can detect various events, providing early warnings of potential security breaches.

H4: Door and Window Sensors

Simple Functionality: These sensors consist of two parts that attach to a door or window and its frame. When the door or window is opened, the connection is broken, triggering an alert to your smartphone.
Affordable Add-ons: These are typically very affordable, often costing $10-$20 per sensor, making them an excellent way to expand the coverage of a smart home security system without significant expense.

H4: Other Useful Sensors

Motion Sensors: In addition to camera-based motion detection, dedicated smart motion sensors can be placed in key areas of your home to detect movement.
Glass Break Sensors: These sensors are designed to detect the specific sound frequency of breaking glass, providing an alert before an intruder even enters.

Integrating for a Cohesive System

The true power of smart home security lies in integration. Many smart security devices can work together.

Smart Hubs: Consider a smart home hub (e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub) that can act as a central controller for various smart devices. This allows you to create routines, such as having lights turn on when a motion sensor is triggered.
App Control: Most smart security devices are controlled via a dedicated smartphone app, allowing you to monitor your home, receive alerts, and adjust settings remotely.

By strategically choosing and implementing smart home technology, you can significantly enhance your Starcreek home’s security without incurring the high costs often associated with traditional, professionally installed security systems. The focus should be on devices that offer practical functionality and good value for money.

DIY and Low-Cost Security Measures: Empowering Your Own Defense

Beyond purchasing devices, there are numerous practical steps you can take yourself to bolster your home’s security in Starcreek. These DIY and low-cost measures often require more ingenuity and effort than financial investment, making them ideal for budget-conscious homeowners.

Reinforcing Doors and Windows: Practical Upgrades

As mentioned previously, physical reinforcement is key. Here are some DIY-focused approaches.

H4: Door Reinforcement Techniques

Door Jamb Reinforcement Kit: You can purchase DIY door jamb reinforcement kits that include longer screws and metal plates. These are designed to strengthen the jamb and make it far more resistant to kicking in. Installation is usually straightforward with basic tools.
Shimming Strike Plates: If a standard strike plate is slightly loose or not perfectly aligned, you can use cardboard or thin wood shims to create a tighter, more secure fit.
Window Security Bars (Interior): For basement windows or other less frequently used openings, consider installing interior window security bars. These are often adjustable and can be installed from the inside.

H4: Window Security Enhancements

Window Security Pins: For sliding windows or patio doors, consider security pins that thread through the tracks, preventing them from being opened beyond a certain point. These are inexpensive and easy to install.
Peep Hole Installation: If a door lacks a peephole, installing one is a straightforward DIY task that significantly improves your ability to screen visitors.

Creating Deterrents and Obstacles

Making your home appear less appealing or more difficult to access can be a powerful deterrent.

H4: Landscaping for Security

Shrubbery Management: Trim bushes and trees that are close to windows and doors. Overgrown landscaping can provide cover for intruders and create blind spots. Keep thorny bushes under windows as a natural deterrent.
Gravel Pathways: While a bit of an aesthetic choice, gravel pathways can make it difficult for intruders to approach your home silently.

H4: Signage and Visibility

“Beware of Dog” Signs: Even if you don’t have a dog, a “Beware of Dog” sign can act as a psychological deterrent.
Visible Deterrents: If you decide to use dummy cameras or other visible security measures, ensure they are placed in a way that suggests genuine surveillance.

Securing Valuables and Important Documents

While not directly related to preventing entry, securing your valuables and important documents can mitigate the impact of a successful break-in.

H4: Home Safe Options

Small, Affordable Safes: You don’t need a bank vault for your home. Invest in a small, fireproof, and pry-resistant home safe for crucial documents, jewelry, and other small valuables. Bolt it down to the floor or a sturdy piece of furniture for added security.
Diversification: Don’t put all your valuables in one place. Spread them out in different locations throughout the house, or keep some items off-site if possible (e.g., with family or in a bank deposit box).

H4: Digital Security for Valuables

Secure Digital Copies: Store important documents like passports, social security cards, and financial records as encrypted digital copies on a secure cloud service or an external hard drive kept in a separate, secure location.

Neighborhood Watch and Community Involvement

Metrics	Data
Crime Rate	Low
Home Security Companies	Multiple
Cost of Basic Security System	Affordable
Response Time of Local Police	Fast

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Leveraging your community is a highly effective and often cost-free security strategy.

H4: Participating in Neighborhood Watch

Active Participation: If there’s a Neighborhood Watch program in Starcreek, get involved. Knowing your neighbors and looking out for each other creates a stronger, more secure community.
Reporting Suspicious Activity: Be observant and report any unusual activity to the authorities. Even small reports can help build a bigger picture for law enforcement.

H4: Communication with Neighbors

Sharing Information: Maintain open communication with your immediate neighbors. If you’re going on vacation, let them know so they can keep an eye on your property. Likewise, offer to do the same for them.

By focusing on these DIY and low-cost strategies, you empower yourself to take direct control over your home’s security. These are practical, actionable steps that can significantly improve your peace of mind without straining your finances.

If you’re considering enhancing your home security in Starcreek, Allen, TX, you might find it helpful to explore various options available in your area. A related article discusses home security systems and services that can provide peace of mind for homeowners. For more insights, check out this informative piece on home security systems that could guide you in making the best choice for your needs.

The Role of Security Wraps and Reinforcements on High-Risk Areas

While many homeowners focus on doors and windows, there are specific areas of your home that might present unique vulnerabilities, especially older properties or those with specific architectural features. Addressing these high-risk areas with targeted, affordable reinforcements can be highly effective.

Reinforcing Glass on Vulnerable Entry Points

Glass is inherently breakable, and certain types of glass in older homes or specific door designs can be particularly susceptible.

H4: Security Window Film Applications

Shatter-Resistant Film: As previously mentioned, security window film is a cost-effective solution. It’s applied to the interior surface of the glass and holds the shards together if the glass is broken, making it much harder and noisier to gain entry. This is ideal for patio doors, sidelights, and other large glass panels.
DIY Application: While professional installation is an option, security window film can often be applied successfully by homeowners with patience and attention to detail. Kits usually come with clear instructions.

H4: Reinforcing Transoms and Sidelights

Transom Security: Transom windows (the small windows above doors) can be a weak point. If they are large enough to be reached, consider reinforcing them with security film or even securely bolting them shut from the inside.
Sidelight Reinforcement: Sidelights (the tall, narrow windows on either side of a door) are also common targets. Ensure they are adequately protected with security film or consider adding decorative grilles if the aesthetic suits your home.

Addressing Weak Points in Older Homes

Older homes in Starcreek, while charming, may have original features that are less secure by modern standards.

H4: Original Door Frames and Locks

Strengthening Original Frames: If your older home has beautiful original wooden door frames, they might be softer or more prone to splitting than modern materials. Reinforcing the strike plates with long screws that reach into the wall studs is crucial, as discussed earlier.
Upgrading Original Locks: Original door locks on older homes may be worn or less secure. While preserving the vintage look is important, consider upgrading to a more modern, high-security deadbolt that can be installed discreetly or in a way that complements the existing hardware. A locksmith can advise on the best options.

H4: Attics and Crawl Spaces

Access Point Security: While generally less common for entry during a burglary, attic and crawl space access points should still be considered. Ensure hatches and doors are secured, and consider adding simple locks or latches.

Securing the Sliding Glass Doors: A Common Vulnerability

Sliding glass doors, especially on back patios, are often a prime target for burglars due to their large glass panels and sometimes less robust locking mechanisms.

H4: Strengthening the Sliding Mechanism

Charley Bar or Security Bar: A simple and inexpensive solution is a “charley bar” or a security bar that fits into the track of the sliding door, preventing it from being slid open. These can be made from a cut piece of wood or metal. Ensure it fits snugly.
Dowel Rods: For a quick and easy solution, a cut dowel rod placed in the bottom track can prevent the door from being forced open.

H4: Reinforcing the Lock

Secondary Lock: Many sliding glass doors have a basic latch. Consider adding a secondary lock, such as a key-operated deadbolt designed for sliding doors or a telescoping security bar that locks the door in place.

Making Basements Safer: Often an Underserved Area

Basement windows are often smaller and more easily accessible from the ground level, making them a potential entry point.

H4: Basement Window Security Bars

Removable Bars: For basement windows, installing security bars is a highly effective measure. Ensure you choose bars that are designed for easy removal from the inside in case of an emergency.
Grates and Screens: If bars are not aesthetically desirable, consider adding sturdy metal grates or reinforced screens to basement windows.

By focusing on these specific, often overlooked, high-risk areas and applying targeted, affordable reinforcements, you can create a more comprehensive and robust security system for your Starcreek home without significant financial investment.

If you’re considering enhancing your home security in Starcreek, Allen, TX, you might find it helpful to explore related services that offer comprehensive solutions. For instance, a recent article discusses various home security systems available in Sacramento, California, which can provide insights into the latest technologies and strategies for protecting your home. You can read more about these systems and their benefits in this informative piece on home security systems by following this link.

Planning and Budgeting for Sustainable Home Security

Achieving robust home security in Starcreek isn’t a one-time purchase; it’s an ongoing process. Effective planning and budgeting ensure that your security measures remain relevant and functional over time without causing financial strain.

Prioritizing Your Security Investments

Not all security risks are equal, and neither are all security solutions. Strategically prioritizing where you spend your money and effort is key to affordability.

H4: Risk Assessment Driven Prioritization

High-Risk, Low-Cost First: Begin with the most critical vulnerabilities that can be addressed with the lowest cost. This usually involves reinforcing doors and windows with deadbolts, strike plates, and window security films.
Deterrents and Early Warnings: Next, focus on measures that deter criminals and provide early warnings, such as motion-activated lighting and smart doorbells.
Monitoring and Evidence: Finally, consider options for ongoing monitoring and evidence gathering, such as security cameras, if your budget allows.

H4: Phased Implementation Approach

Break it Down: Instead of trying to do everything at once, create a phased implementation plan. Address the most urgent needs first, and then gradually add more advanced solutions over time as your budget permits. This makes the overall cost more manageable.
Leverage Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for sales events, holiday discounts, and package deals on security equipment. Buying during these times can significantly reduce the overall cost.

Budgeting for Ongoing Maintenance and Upgrades

Home security systems, even affordable ones, require some level of ongoing maintenance and occasional upgrades.

H4: Regular System Checks

Battery Replacement: For battery-powered devices like wireless sensors and some cameras, regularly check and replace batteries. Weak batteries can lead to the system failing when you need it most.
Software Updates: Ensure your smart home security devices have the latest firmware and software updates. These often include security patches and performance improvements.
Physical Inspection: Periodically inspect your physical security measures. Check locks for wear and tear, ensure window films are still adhering properly, and trim any overhanging branches that could compromise security.

H4: Planning for Future Upgrades

Technological Advancements: The smart home security landscape is constantly evolving. Plan to budget for potential upgrades as new, more efficient, or more affordable technologies emerge.
Scalability: When choosing systems, consider scalability. Can you easily add more cameras or sensors later if needed? This avoids having to replace entire systems and incur additional costs.

Understanding Subscription Services and Hidden Costs

Many smart security devices come with optional subscription services for cloud storage, professional monitoring, or enhanced features. It’s important to understand these costs upfront.

H4: Evaluating Subscription Value

Necessity vs. Convenience: Determine if a subscription service is truly necessary for your security needs. For many, basic local storage or free cloud tiers may be sufficient.
Compare Providers: If you do opt for a subscription, compare services from different providers to find the best value for your money. Look for customer reviews and terms of service.

H4: DIY Monitoring as a Cost-Saving Measure

Self-Monitoring: One of the biggest cost-savers in smart home security is self-monitoring. This means you receive alerts directly to your smartphone and are responsible for contacting authorities if needed. While it requires your attention, it eliminates monthly monitoring fees.

Long-Term Value and Return on Investment

While security systems are an expense, view them as an investment in your property and your family’s well-being.

H4: Preventing Financial Losses

Deterrence: Effective security measures deter burglaries, preventing the financial loss of stolen property and the cost of repairs.
Insurance Discounts: Some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with security systems installed. Inquire with your insurer to see if this applies.

H4: Peace of Mind as Intangible Value

Reduced Stress: The ability to sleep soundly at night, knowing your home and loved ones are protected, is an invaluable return on investment that cannot be measured in dollars and cents.

By adopting a proactive approach to planning and budgeting, you can ensure that your Starcreek home security system is not only affordable but also sustainable and effective in the long term. This strategic foresight ensures that your investment in safety continues to provide a strong return for years to come.

FAQs

What is Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx?

Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx is a home security service provider that offers affordable and reliable security solutions for residents in the Starcreek community in Allen, Texas.

What services does Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx offer?

Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx offers a range of services including installation of security systems, surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and 24/7 monitoring services.

How can I contact Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx?

You can contact Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx by visiting their website and filling out a contact form, or by calling their customer service hotline.

What are the benefits of using Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx?

The benefits of using Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx include affordable pricing, professional installation, reliable monitoring services, and peace of mind for homeowners.

Is Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx available for both homeowners and renters?

Yes, Affordable Home Security Starcreek Allen Tx offers security solutions for both homeowners and renters in the Starcreek community in Allen, Texas.