Pin of the Week - Getting Festive for March!

Everyone needs a little festive.  Don't you think?

This super cute and easy decoration is great for all ages to enjoy.  From fancy to simple, single to multiple, you've got options.  Get creative!

Pin of the Week - Start Thinking Garden!

Whether you believe it or not, good gardening takes time... Not just the planting, weeding, watering, picking, and EATING, but the planning takes a good amount of time as well. 

There are lots of planners online to help you, and this week's pin is just one of them that is available.  Start planning now so that you can be ready when mother nature is!

Looking to Sell Your Home This Spring?

Here are a few ways to get ahead of the game and be ready to sell QUICK this year from the National Association of Realtors. 

5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale

By: G. M. Filisko

Published: February 10, 2010

Working to get your home ship-shape for showings will increase its value and shorten your sales time.

1. Have a home inspection

Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. For $250 to $400, an inspector will warn you about troubles that could make potential buyers balk. Make repairs before putting your home on the market. In some states, you may have to disclose what the inspection turns up.

2. Get replacement estimates

If your home inspection uncovers necessary repairs you can’t fund, get estimates for the work. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home and the repairs. Also hunt down warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for your furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items you expect to remain with the house.

3. Make minor repairs

Not every repair costs a bundle. Fix as many small problems—sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, dripping faucets—as you can. These may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression your house isn’t well maintained.

4. Clear the clutter

Clear your kitchen counters of just about everything. Clean your closets by packing up little-used items like out-of-season clothes and old toys. Install closet organizers to maximize space. Put at least one-third of your furniture in storage, especially large pieces, such as entertainment centers and big televisions. Pack up family photos, knickknacks, and wall hangings to depersonalize your home. Store the items you’ve packed offsite or in boxes neatly arranged in your garage or basement.

5. Do a thorough cleaning

A clean house makes a strong first impression that your home has been well cared for. If you can afford it, consider hiring a cleaning service.
If not, wash windows and leave them open to air out your rooms. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Wash light fixtures and baseboards, mop and wax floors, and give your stove and refrigerator a thorough once-over.
Pay attention to details, too. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, clean inside the cabinets, and polish doorknobs. Don’t forget to clean your garage, too.

G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer who has found happiness in a Chicago brownstone with the best curb appeal on the block. A frequent contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.

Pin of the Week - Feb 3

Hey Everyone -

Now that spring is approaching (stop laughing!) it could be time to think about some quick and easy upgrades for your home.  This week's pin includes some ideas to get you started.  Feel free to share your advice as well!

Have a great week!

P.S.  Just as a quickie disclaimer - I am not promoting or promising any of the tips will create a bigger return for you than your investment.  Enjoy the tips, and maybe they will help you enjoy your home even more!

Now is the Time!

I was out with a client yesterday and in looking around Rochester, there isn't that much on the market.  What does this mean for YOU?

As a buyer, you will want to constantly monitor what is available in your price range - you are going to need to move quickly to get the perfect home when it comes on the market.

As a seller, it's more important than ever to get your home on the market (DON'T WAIT!) and ensure it is ready to be shown, priced right, and advertised with a Realtor.

This is a PERFECT time to get yourself moving and to get in touch with me today.  From setting up a custom search that sends listings right to your email, going to see potential properties, and listing your current home, I can help you every step of the way!