Uncategorized • June 21, 2024

Hot savings staying cool this summer!

by Kim Robbins

Hot savings staying cool this summer! In this radiant season of summer, consider making a commitment to enhance energy efficiency. As the sun’s scorching rays hint at rising energy costs, there are mystical methods to reduce these expenses without sacrificing comfort. Embrace the opportunity to examine your home and discover ways to lower energy usage. Look beyond the summer heat to set a course for the coming months, learning how to manage your energy bills year-round.

Begin by scheduling a complimentary energy audit for your entire home. Our expert energy advisors are prepared to reveal improvements crucial for boosting your home’s energy efficiency, from magical attic insulation to sealing elusive ducts, all leading to lasting savings. They will also determine if you qualify for incentives to help offset the cost of these enhancements.

The interplay of keeping cool in summer often leads to energy waste in homes. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat if you don’t already have one. This enchanted device allows you to program temperature adjustments based on your daily routine, effortlessly saving energy.

Another secret ritual to save energy and money is to swap out outdated, energy-guzzling incandescent lights for their energy-efficient counterparts. According to the Chronicles of the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting accounts for a fraction of your home’s energy use. Switching to LED lights can reduce energy consumption by up to 75%, lasting 25 lunar cycles longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and promising significant savings over time.

Committing to energy efficiency can be one of the most rewarding resolutions for this season. The Guardians of Home Energy Rx are eager to assist you with any enchantments needed for your dwelling. Send your message through the ether or call us at (501) 414-8094, and they will illuminate the path to energy conservation and financial relief throughout the celestial cycle.

Real estate • June 14, 2024

Looking for Yellowstone Vibe in Arkansas?

by Kim Robbins

Stunning Ranch Home for Sale in Lonoke, AR – A Perfect Family Haven

Listed by Quita Bennett of Bennett Realty**

Explore the exceptional beauty and tranquility of this stunning property located at 2494 E Highway 236 in Lonoke, Arkansas. This magnificent 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath home, nestled on a 160-acre ranch, offers an unparalleled lifestyle surrounded by picturesque pastures, serene woods, and abundant wildlife, including deer, with breathtaking sunsets.

🏡 Property Features

– Spacious Layout: The home spans 3,634 sq. ft., providing ample space for comfortable living and entertaining.
– Grand Entrance: The 10 ft. custom steel doors open to a welcoming foyer and a great room with a cozy fireplace and an impressive 18 ft. cathedral ceiling.
– Handcrafted Elements: The foyer’s ceiling, dining room wall, and barn door in the great room are made from trees harvested directly from the ranch, adding a unique and rustic charm.
– Outdoor Living: Enjoy the covered back porch featuring a woodburning fireplace and a grilling area, perfect for gatherings and outdoor enjoyment.
– Chef’s Kitchen: The incredible kitchen is equipped with an oversized honed quartz island, quartz countertops, an under-counter Sonic ice maker, two sinks, a double oven, a gas stove, and a counter-depth refrigerator. A walk-in pantry/safe room adjoins the kitchen for added convenience.
– Luxurious Master Suite: The master suite boasts a jet tub, walk-in shower, warming fireplace, and a master closet that opens directly to the laundry room.
– Guest Accommodations: Two spacious guest bedrooms and baths, with one being handicap accessible, ensure comfort for all visitors.
– Functional Office Space: Custom wood cabinets and shelves enhance the office, providing a perfect space for productivity.

Additional Highlights

– Metal Shop: 2,400 sq. ft. metal shop includes guest quarters/mancave, a full bath, and a mini-split HVAC system.
– Additional Home:** The property also features a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 880 sq. ft. updated home, ideal for extended family or guests.
– Outdoor Recreation:** Approximately 100 acres of timber make this property perfect for deer hunting and outdoor adventures.

Contact Information

501-353-4264 or email Krobbins@cbrpm.com

Don’t miss out on this magnificent family haven. For a private showing, please contact Kim Robbins, Realtor at Coldwell Banker RPM.

—

🌐 Sources
1. [Zillow – 2494 Highway 236 E, Lonoke, AR 72086](https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/2494-Highway-236-E-Lonoke-AR-72086/99419158_zpid/)
2. [LandSearch – 160 Acres of Land with Home for Sale in Lonoke, Arkansas](https://www.landsearch.com/properties/2494-e-highway-236-lonoke-ar-72086/3749760)
3. [Realtor.com – For Sale: 2494 E Highway 236, Lonoke, AR 72086](https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/2494-E-Highway-236_Lonoke_AR_72086_M92769-00802)

Why Spring Is the Best Time to Buy a Home

by Kim Robbins

Spring is widely recognized as the best time to buy a home, and it’s not hard to see why. The season is all about fresh starts and new beginnings, which feels just right when you’re about to make a big decision like purchasing a new home. Learn why now could be the right time to find the perfect place to call your own.

Market Reset and Increased Inventory in Spring

Spring marks the beginning of what is traditionally the busiest period in the real estate market. And after a few years of unpredictable market conditions, Money Magazineanticipates that 2024 could bring a much-needed real estate reset. With economies stabilizing and people adjusting well to post-pandemic lifestyles, the housing market is expected to reflect a more typical bustling season. This influx of listings increases your choices, giving you a better chance of finding a home that fits your exact needs and wants.

The Advantage of Clear Property Evaluations

Winter weather can hide many imperfections, from roofing issues to landscaping woes. As that weather recedes, getting a clear, unobstructed view of each property is easier. The return of milder temps also allows for a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, including the condition of the paint, gutters, roofing and siding. As we move into the warmer months, you’ll also get a good peek at the property’s yard and landscaping – a big deal for many buyers. Seeing the full outdoor potential can really paint a picture of what’s to come, helping you dream up all the fantastic possibilitiesfor your future garden or outdoor oasis.

Optimal Timing for Families

Buying a home in the spring is strategically sound for families with children. It aligns with the academic calendar, allowing families to relocate and settle in before the start of the new school year. This timing eases transitions for children and adults alike, providing the summer months to adjust to a new neighborhood, get all those new home tasks complete, make new friends and prepare for any school or work changes that come with moving.

Negotiation Opportunities

With the spring market’s rush of activity, there’s a unique push and pull that benefits savvy negotiators. Sellers looking to bounce back from the slower winter months are generally more open to discussions, and buyers are eager to purchase and settle in by summer. This mutual motivation can smooth the path to negotiations, potentially tipping the scales in favor of buyers looking for a good deal.

Spring Shows a Neighborhood’s Character

Milder weather not only revives trees and gardens but also community life. This uptick in activity can give potential buyers a true feel for the neighborhood’s character and lifestyle. Are the streets filled with playing children or is it a quiet, more reserved community? Is the neighborhood buzzing with local events and gatherings? Viewing a neighborhood in the spring can provide a clearer picture of daily life there. So when you visit an open house, be sure get a feel for the whole area.

While the best time to buy a home is when you’re financially and emotionally ready, March, April and May offer some unique advantages that can enhance the home-buying experience. Increased inventory, the ability to conduct thorough property evaluations, timing that suits family needs, favorable mortgage rates and negotiation potential all make spring an ideal time to take the plunge, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer looking to find the perfect setting for your next chapter.

Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Uncategorized • March 13, 2024

Simple Steps for a Greener Home Lifestyle

by Kim Robbins

Simple Steps for a Greener Home Lifestyle

Ready to channel your inner eco-warrior? Give your home lifestyle a green makeover with a few simple tweaks and turn your humble abode into a sustainability superstar with these simple steps for a greener home lifestyle.

Set the Tone With Lighting

To begin transforming your home to a green lifestyle, start by examining the way your home is lit. Embrace natural light whenever possible by adding curtains that let you control the brightness. And when it comes to light bulbs, switch to energy-efficient LEDs. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint.

Use Eco-Friendly Alternatives

There are many opportunities where you can swap out environment-harming products for planet-friendly options. Begin by replacing cleaning materials with ones made with plant-based ingredients. Then, seek ways to reduce waste by opting for reusable items and say goodbye to single-use plastics by replacing them with stainless-steel alternatives. Additionally, when upgrading furniture or appliances, consider energy-efficiency and recycled or reclaimed options to add style and sustainability to your space.

Incorporate Sustainable Practices

Create a home environment in harmony with nature by implementing environmentally friendly practices. Establish conservation policies to reduce waste and water usage – and make composting a part of your daily routine. Also, don’t forget about your outdoor space – plant native species in your garden to support local ecosystems and reduce your carbon footprint.

Maximize Energy Efficiency in Your Home

Take your commitment to sustainability further by investing in programmable thermostats to regulate heating and cooling, sealing gaps and cracks to prevent energy loss and installing solar panels to harness renewable energy. By reducing your energy consumption, you’re saving money and helping to protect the planet.

Every day offers a moment to be an eco-champion. With these minor changes in your home and daily lifestyle habits, you’re well on your way to a greener future!

Uncategorized • March 6, 2024

Preparing Your Home for Sale: Tips and Timeline

by Kim Robbins

Preparing Your Home for Sale: Tips and Timeline

Selling a home can be a time-consuming process, but with proper preparation and a clear timeline, you can streamline the experience and increase your chances of a successful sale. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get your home ready for sale, including an estimate of how long each step might take:

Assess Your Home’s Condition (1-2 Weeks): Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your home’s condition. Identify any repairs or updates that need to be made, such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing damaged walls, or replacing outdated fixtures. This step may take anywhere from one to two weeks, depending on the extent of the work required.
Declutter and Depersonalize (1-2 Weeks): Clear out clutter and personal items to create a clean and neutral space that appeals to potential buyers. This process can take one to two weeks, depending on the amount of clutter and the size of your home.
Deep Clean (1 Week): Give your home a thorough cleaning, paying attention to every detail, from floors and carpets to windows and appliances. Depending on the size of your home and the level of cleanliness required, deep cleaning can take around one week to complete.
Enhance Curb Appeal (1-2 Weeks): Improve the exterior of your home to make a positive first impression on potential buyers. This may involve landscaping, painting the front door, or making minor repairs to the exterior. Depending on the scope of the improvements, enhancing curb appeal can take one to two weeks.
Make Necessary Repairs (1-2 Weeks): Address any minor repairs or maintenance issues that could detract from the value of your home. This may include fixing leaky roofs, repairing plumbing or electrical issues, or replacing broken tiles. Depending on the complexity of the repairs, this step may take one to two weeks.
Neutralize Paint Colors (1 Week): Repaint walls in neutral tones to appeal to a broader range of buyers. This step typically takes around one week to complete, including time for preparation, painting, and drying.
Maximize Natural Light (1 Day): Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible during showings. This step can be completed in just one day but may require occasional adjustments depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Stage Your Home (1-2 Weeks): Arrange furniture and decor to showcase your home’s best features and create an inviting atmosphere. Depending on the extent of staging required, this process can take one to two weeks.
Address Odors (1 Day): Identify and eliminate any unpleasant odors in your home, such as pet smells or cooking odors. This step can typically be completed in just one day with the use of air fresheners or odor eliminators.
Work with a Real Estate Professional (Ongoing): Enlist the help of a reputable real estate agent who can provide guidance on pricing, marketing strategies, and negotiating offers. Working with an agent is an ongoing process that continues until your home is sold.

In conclusion, preparing your home for sale requires careful planning and attention to detail, but with a clear timeline and realistic expectations, you can successfully navigate the selling process. By following these steps and allowing sufficient time for each task, you can increase your chances of selling your home quickly and for the best possible price.

Uncategorized • March 6, 2024

Elevate Your Home’s First Impression

by Kim Robbins

When making a lasting impact, your home’s curb appeal is the first thing that catches the eye. Whether you’re looking to sell or want to enjoy a welcoming entrance this spring, these tips will help you spruce up the exterior charm of your home. Read on for these tips on how to elevate your home’s first impression.

A Splash of Color Matters

A simple touch can make a huge impact. One of the quickest ways to freshen up a space is to introduce a bold or complementary color for the exterior palette. You could be trendy and add a splash of Upward, Sherwin Williams 2024, color of the year to your front door or include accents to infuse pops of pizazz.

Lush Greenery for the Win

Don’t underestimate the power of greenery and well-maintained landscaping. Plant colorful flowers, trim overgrown bushes and add potted plants to create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, placing hanging window box planters is a great way to create a visual separation for more intimate outdoor areas.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Illuminate your entryway with stylish outdoor lighting fixtures to add sophistication and create a warm nighttime ambiance. From the garden and pathways to water features and strategically placed motion wall lights, there are so many ways you could spark a mesmerizing allure after the sun goes down.

Upgrade Your Mailbox Game

Your mailbox can express your home’s personality, and replacing it with a stylish one that complements your home’s architecture can make a big difference. From revamping the materials of the post to granite, brick masonry or tree-branch wood to surrounding it with planters or lighting, the mailbox opportunities are endless.

Statement House Numbers

Prominent, easy-to-read house numbers in a style that aligns with your home’s aesthetic can add a touch of personality. Consider different materials, placements and surrounding finishes when deciding what will work with your home’s unique architectural style.

Clean and Tidy Walkways

Pressure-wash your entry paths, repair cracks or add decorative stones for an extra expression of inviting elegance. It may seem daunting, so prioritize must-fix and mostly seen spaces. Also, you should consider walking through your property to make a list of the areas that need a little TLC.

Charming Furniture and Décor

Create a cozy outdoor space with a bench or welcoming lounge chair to make your home stand out. Whether it is on your porch or backyard patio, you’ll want to consider its durability against weather and comfort. You can extend your living space to a beautiful nature-centered oasis.

Front Porch Appeal

A great way to weave in a creative flair that sets the tone for the interior is to extend décor to the front porch. Add cushions, throws, a decorative wreath or monograms to establish an inviting ambiance.

The little details make the difference – let your home’s outdoor space shine.

Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Selling • Uncategorized • February 8, 2024

Spring Into Action: Tips for Selling Your Home This Season

by Kim Robbins

As temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, now is the perfect time for a spring home sale. In fact, real estate data provider ATTOM found that properties sold in April, May and June garnered the highest returns over the last 12 years. If you want to take advantage of the season’s vibrant energy and high demand, here’s what you can do to ensure a successful sale. Spring into action with these tips for selling your home this season.

Maximize Your Curb Appeal

Spring is the ideal season to show off the beauty of your home and capture buyer interest before they even step through the front door. Nothing is more inviting than a freshly mowed lawn, blooming flowers and well-manicured trees and shrubbery. Buyers will notice the details, so it also pays to have your home and driveway power washed and gutters cleaned. Even small improvements like a new mailbox, welcome mat or porchlight can make a big impact.

Do a Deep Clean

Your home should sparkle from the floorboards to the ceiling fans. Buyers pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, so you’ll want to address tiling, grout lines and appliances. Replace shelf liners and shower curtains and have the carpets and curtains cleaned as well. And don’t forget about hidden spots, like the cabinet under the sink and the area behind the refrigerator. A pristine home shows buyers that the property has been taken care of, giving them more confidence to put in a competitive offer.

Address Repairs and Upgrades

You don’t have to renovate your home to get a quick sale. Some minor upgrades can significantly enhance the property’s overall appeal. A fresh coat of paint, for example, can change the entire feel of your home. Choose neutral colors and keep the palette consistent throughout the interior. You can also replace outdated drawer pulls, knobs and faucets. If your budget allows, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances and/or countertops, as these are important features that buyers will appreciate.

Declutter and Depersonalize

A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal items and unnecessary objects to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad audience. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos and knickknacks. Keep kitchen and bathroom counters clear and consider removing a piece or two of furniture from each room to enhance its spaciousness. Bare walls can make the home seem sterile, so hang tasteful artwork that doesn’t overpower the room.

Lighten up the Interior

Spring offers abundant natural light, making your home appear expansive and inviting. Clean your windows thoroughly to allow for maximum sunlight and keep your curtains and blinds open during showings. Now is also a good time to replace lightbulbs to create a warm ambiance throughout the residence.

As you prepare for a spring home sale, your agent will guide you through other key considerations, like pricing the home competitively, arranging professional photography and engaging buyers across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Together you can make your property stand out in this season’s blooming real estate market. We hope you’ll spring into action with these tips for selling your home this season!

Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Uncategorized • January 25, 2024

Top 5 Home Renovations

by Kim Robbins

Well-planned home renovations can really enhance your home’s appeal and amp up its price when it’s time to sell. But not all improvements bring a hefty return on investment (ROI). Knowing the most promising updates can help strategize your revamping efforts for an attractive sale. Read on for a rundown of the top five home improvements likely to supercharge your property’s resale value Here are the top 5 home renovations with the best return on investment.

Kitchen Upgrades

A modern, functional kitchen can impress prospective buyers and significantly boost your resale value. But a complete remodel isn’t always necessary when you’re looking for a sizable ROI. If your kitchen already has a good layout, work with what you have and make strategic changes. Key renovations to consider include new countertops, an updated backsplash, a fresh coat of paint, and high-end appliances. Need some swoon-worthy inspiration to get you in the mood? These kitchen updates will make you want to start taking notes and making plans.

Bathroom Remodels

Bathroom updates are next on the list of top ROI home renovations. Your efforts here can range from replacing dated fixtures to a more comprehensive refresh, including a new soaking tub or a sleek walk-in shower. But before you pencil in a new skylight and heated floor tiles, consider every tweak’s necessity and potential upside, as bathroom work – like kitchen updates – can quickly become expensive. But if you can invest more in this space, you’ll likely see significant returns.

Hardwood Flooring

There’s no question about it – adding or refinishing lackluster hardwood flooring can significantly enhance the value of your home. This type of flooring offers a timeless look that harmoniously blends with various design styles, from boho chic to classic elegance. Besides their aesthetic charm, hardwood floors are sturdy, easy to clean and healthier due to the absence of trapped allergens often found in carpets. Buyers are consistently willing to pay more for a house with hardwood, making this upgrade a wise choice if you can swing it. How much will wood floors cost you? It all depends on the size of your rooms, the style you choose and the tree species.

Eco-Friendly Improvements

Energy-conscious renovations have been in vogue for a while now. An energy-efficient home attracts a broad range of buyers and contributes to a greener, healthier environment for everyone. Energy-saving windows, LED lighting, Energy Star-certified appliances, higher-rated insulation, an updated HVAC system and solar panels can offer a higher selling price point and significant cost savings for the homeowner.

Adding an extra room or an outdoor living space

Expanding your total livable space can add considerable worth to your home, whether it’s a finished basement, attic or flex space. An additional bedroom or an office are always in demand, especially in this work-from-home era. If expanding indoors isn’t feasible, transform your outdoor area into a relaxing second living room. A deck or patio can be an enticing bonus for buyers looking for more usable square footage at the property. Swanky garage conversions can also provide extra room year-round with unique appeal.

The right home upgrades can substantially increase your property’s value. However, balancing your renovation budget with the prospective benefits is crucial. In addition to this list, research your market and pay attention to what features the top-selling homes in your area offer. Consulting a real estate professional can also help you make informed decisions and optimize your home renovations for the best ROI.

For more tips about selling your home you might like First Impressions Matter – Get Your Home Market Ready

Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Uncategorized • January 11, 2024

How to make your house of home for your fur babies

by Kim Robbins

If you share your home with a pet or two (or five), you know their well-being is a top priority. Along with making a move less stressful for them, learning how to pet-proof your home should be high on the list for responsible pet owners. Read on to know what to look out for and how to make your home a comfortable and secure place for everyone. Here’s how to make a house a home for your fur babies.

Kitchens

Star your pet-proofing mission in the kitchen, as it has a lot of potentially dangerous and tempting items for your four-legged friends. Ensure cabinets are secure to prevent access to cleaning supplies, cutlery and any unauthorized treats – child-proof cabinet locks are an excellent option here. Some human foods can be life-threatening for dogs and cats, so promptly store items like chocolates, crackers and leftovers away or you could be making an unexpected trip to the emergency vet. Garbage bins should have lids or be kept inside cabinets, as pets can get into trash hunting for a bonus meal.

Living Rooms

You probably spend a lot of quality time with your pets in your living room, which also deserves a careful going-over. Keep small objects, like breakable decorative pieces and children’s toys, out of reach. Electrical cords should be concealed or secured, as they present a chewing temptation for many animals. Certain houseplants can also be toxicfor your fur babies, so you’ll want to eliminate any dangerous varieties.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

In bedrooms, keep your clothes, shoes and personal items stowed away since anything can become a fun chew toy, especially for dogs. Secure medications, razors and other sharp objects away from curious paws and noses. And while a cat lying on the bathroom floor surrounded by a roll of unspooled toilet paper seems like it’d be great photo op, it’ll be a pain to clean up. Consider keeping doors closed when you’re not around.

Yards, Patios and Decks

If your pets spend considerable time outside, you’ll want to provide a shaded area and fresh water to prevent overheating in hot weather. Also, think about installing a pet door if you do have an enclosed outdoor space like a catio or dog run, making it easy for them to get outside safely. Plus, animals can be notorious escape artists, so securely latch all non-pet doors and windows to prevent any unexpected breakouts.

Create Pet-Friendly Spaces

Pet-proofing is not only about forbidden areas and potential harm – it’s also about making cozy and pet-specific areas for your animals. Your pets deserve to love their home as much as you do, so give them their own spots, like napping nooks and comfortable hiding places. Dogs might appreciate a snuggly bed in a quiet corner, while many cats love hanging out in a felted cat cave. Designate an area for pet toys, like a stylish basket or bin. This will make picking up a breeze and your pets will know where to go when it’s time to play.

Creating a safe environment by knowing how to pet-proof your home is vital to being a good pet owner. And with a little effort, you can make your house a haven for the whole family.

Housing market • Moving Tips • Real estate • Selling • January 11, 2024

Should you use a Realtor? A client’s perspective

by Kim Robbins

Should you use a Realtor? The home buying or selling process can be daunting, especially if you’ve never done it or it’s been a while. Many may try to go it alone thinking they’ve watched enough HGTV to breeze through the process. Well, read below to see just why this client thought working with me was worth and it may help you make decision of just how valuable a Realtor can be!

Working with Kimberly as my real estate agent has been an absolute pleasure from start to finish. Her unparalleled expertise, coupled with an unwavering dedication, truly sets her apart in the competitive world of real estate.

From our initial conversation, it was evident that Kim’s commitment to understanding my needs went beyond the ordinary. Her profound knowledge of local market trends and her keen eye for detail ensured that I not only found a property but the perfect one that resonated with my requirements.

Kim’s professionalism and proactive approach were a constant source of reassurance throughout the entire process. She provided timely updates, guided me through every step, and addressed all my queries with patience and clarity. In a realm where the experience can be daunting, Kim’s guidance transformed it into a remarkably smooth and enjoyable journey.

What truly sets Kim apart is not just her ability to find the ideal property but also her exceptional negotiation skills. She secured a fantastic deal that not only exceeded my expectations but also left all parties content with the outcome. It is a testament to her prowess in navigating the intricacies of real estate transactions.

In conclusion, Kim’s exceptional expertise, unwavering commitment, and professionalism make her an outstanding real estate agent. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking a seamless, stress-free real estate experience. The journey with Kim was more than just a transaction; it was a partnership built on trust and expertise.

For more on the benefits of using an agent see Why should you hire a Realtor? , An Expert Gives You Clarity in Today’s Housing Market or What Is Home? Hire an Agent for Your Perfect Home.

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