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.

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.

Holiday and Seasonal • Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Moving Tips • December 21, 2023

How to Store Holiday Decor the Right Way!

by Kim Robbins

How to store your holiday decor the right way!

As the festive season comes to an end, it’s time to say goodbye to the twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and holiday cheer. Dismantling and storing your holiday decor might seem like a daunting task, but fear not! We’ve got your back with some efficient tips on how to tackle this post-holiday challenge like a pro. Tis’ the Season for Winning: How to Dismantle and Store Holiday Decor the Right Way!

1. Start with a plan: Before diving into the dismantling process create a plan of attack. Take stock of your holiday decorations and make a list of the items that need to be dismantled and stored. Having a clear plan will streamline the entire process!

2. Organize by Category: Categorize your holiday decor as you dismantle them. Group similar items together, such as ornaments, lights, wreaths, and figurines. This organization will make it easier to locate specific items when the festive season rolls around again.

3. Invest in Proper Storage Containers: The right storage container can make all the difference. Invest in durable, clear containers that are specifically designed for Holiday decorations. Clear containers will allow you to see the contents without having to open each box, saving you time next year.

(Don’t care for the aesthetic of the clear bins? We totally get it… We love the solid white and / or black Sterilite Tote Box from The Container Store. Just make sure you apply a label and you’re good to go!)

4. Wrap Fragile Items: To protect delicate decorations, wrap them individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap. This extra step ensures that your cherished ornaments and figurines remain in pristine condition throughout the hibernation period.

5. Label Everything: Don’t underestimate the power of labeling! Clearly label each storage bin with its contents. Bonus: Indicate which room or area the decoration belongs to! This makes the unpacking process a breeze when the holiday season returns!

6. Store in a Controlled Environment: Choose a cool, dry place for your holiday decor. Extreme temperatures & humidity can damage decorations over time. Attics and basements may not be the best options, so consider using a spare bedroom closet, or under-the-bed storage, if available.

7. Reflect and Plan for Next Year: As you pack away your holiday decor, take a moment to reflect on the season’s memories. Consider what worked well in terms of decorations and what you might want to add or change for the next year. Jot down any ideas or items needed so you can plan accordingly.

Dismantling and storing holiday decor can be a breeze with a bit of organization and planning! By following these tips, you’ll not only preserve the magic of the season but also set yourself up for holiday decorating success when the festivities roll around again. Here’s to winning during the holidays and a well-organized, stress-free festive future! Happy Dismantling!

-Organize & Prioritize

https://www.organizeprioritize.net

This is a local business that I recommend to all my clients as they also offer packing services! Subscribe to my newsletter for more great tips like this!

Uncategorized • December 18, 2023

How to Dismantle and Store your Holiday Decor the RIGHT WAY!

by Kim Robbins

This is from a Professional Organizer, Chandler Raney with Organize & Priortize in Central Arkansas check out her website here to find out more.

https://organizepriortitize.net

Uncategorized • December 13, 2023

How Does Santa Claus Get Into A House Without A Chimney No Chimney? Not to worry, Santa Is Still Coming!

by Kim Robbins

Adapted from https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/santa-claus-get-house-without-chimney/

written by Linsday Listanski

How Does Santa Claus Get Into A House Without A Chimney

No Chimney? Not to worry, Santa Is Still Coming

You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I’m telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town!

Yes, that’s right everyone…the countdown to the arrival of Santa Claus is winding down which means that now, more than ever, we must be on our absolute BEST behavior!

As you deck you halls and hang your mistletoe, you may be part of the 60% of homeowners without a fireplace wondering just how exactly Santa will be stopping in to drop of your presents.

“Only 40.3% of homes in the U.S. have fireplaces, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, meaning Mr. Claus must find an alternative entry into about 60% of homes on Christmas Eve.” (WSJ)

At Coldwell Banker, we believe in the magic of home, especially around the holidays. We just HAD to find out the answer to this age old question. To find out we went straight to our source in the North Pole, CeeBee the Elf, and asked “How Does Santa Claus Get Into a Home Without a Chimney?” and got the inside scoop.

The answer is simple… magic and a key!

Santa’s Magic Key Poem
Dear Santa, we have no chimney
as you can plainly see,
And I was terribly worried
that you would pass over me.

We hung this very special key
right by the door.
Then Mom told me to jump into bed;
and not to worry anymore.

Your magic will make this key fit,
to open our door.
So you can come in tonight
and tip-toe across the floor.

Santa Claus has a magic key that he uses to get into homes, apartments, townhouses and condos without a chimney. He also uses this key for homes that have a chimney that is too small for him to fit down (too many Christmas cookies makes it a tight fit).

While Santa has his own special key that works on any home he visits, CeeBee the elf said he also enjoys collecting keys that have been left out by children from all over the world. If you want to leave him a key, you can make one or you can buy one. Try Etsy even Amazon has them!

Decided you want a house with a chimney anyway? Check out this article to see how I can help!

Real estate • Selling • Senior Living • What is home? • October 27, 2023

Is It Time to Rightsize Your Home?

by Kim Robbins

Is It Time to Rightsize Your Home?

Whether you’re an empty nester with unused rooms or need more space to raise your growing family, finding a home that fits your current lifestyle may be the best option.

Does your home still fit your needs or is it time to think about the benefits of buying a new one as you enter the next phase of your life? Whether you’re an empty nester with rooms that are no longer used or need more space to raise your growing family, rightsizing – finding a home that’s the ideal size for your current lifestyle – may be the best option. Is it time to rightsize your home?

Assess Your Living Space. Before deciding whether to rightsize, take stock of your everyday life and ask yourself a few questions, including:

Are some areas of the house, like formal living and dining rooms, rarely used?
Is a dedicated office a must?
Do you want a hobby area or kids’ playroom?
Is your kitchen too big or too small?
Is the garage the right size?
Do you prefer a large yard or a cozier outdoor living space?

Look to the Future. If you decide it’s time to make a move, consider your current lifestyle as well as potential changes in circumstances that could occur in the next few years to determine what size home is best. Maybe you’re planning to have more children, retire in a few years or anticipate an aging parent moving in with you. While you might not need extra space right away, you could in the near future.

Great Layout vs. Square Footage. Getting hung up on a property’s square footage could mean missing out on your dream home, especially in today’s highly competitive market. If a house or condo has the number of bedrooms, baths, kitchen and amenities you want, but its square footage is somewhat less than you envisioned, it still may be worth considering if it has a well-designed layout that uses space efficiently.

Review Your Finances.

Whether you’re looking to downsize or up-size, how much you can afford extends beyond monthly mortgage, tax and insurance payments. Relocating from a sizable residence to a condo or townhome – perhaps in a maintenance-free community with amenities – could mean significantly higher HOA fees and require you to buy new furniture that fits smaller spaces, while a bigger house will have higher utility costs and need additional furnishings to fill extra rooms.

Regardless of your reason for wanting to move, a Coldwell Banker agent has the tools and resources to help you sell your current home and find a new one that’s right for you.

Holiday and Seasonal • Homeowner Tips and Tricks • Uncategorized • October 26, 2023

Simple Holiday Storage Tips to Make Your Life Easier

by Kim Robbins

Simple Holiday Storage Tips to Make Your Life Easier

Give your future self a gift by properly storing all those beautiful holiday decorations away this year! Correctly organizing and packing your holiday ornaments, lights and other decor can save you time, money and frustration when it’s time to take them out again. Here are five simple holiday storage tips to make your life easier to keep your holiday decorations safe and in good condition.

Sorting and Organizing

Before you even start, take the time to coordinate them. Group similar items together, such as ornaments, lights and garlands, to make it easier to find and unpack specific pieces next year. Label your storage bins or boxes for each category of decorations. Clear plastic containers are ideal, allowing you to quickly see the contents without even opening them.

Properly Packing Delicate Items

Glass and other breakable ornaments require special care to prevent damage. Use individual compartments, such as egg cartons or a specialty ornament storage container, to keep pieces separate and protected. Wrap fragile ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap before placing them in their designated spots. Also, think about placing extra fragile ones in their own sturdy box or container within your larger storage bin to further protect them. This added layer will help prevent any accidental breaks.

Untangling and Storing Lights

Tangled lights can be one of the most frustrating parts of holiday decorating. So, before putting them away, untangle your lights and inspect them for any damaged or broken bulbs. Replace any non-functioning bulbs to ensure everything is ready to use next year. You might want to use a spool or cord reel to tame any tangles. Alternatively, you can wrap lights around cardboard or even a hanger, securing the ends with zip or twist ties.

Protecting Wreaths and Garlands

To keep faux foliage in good condition, store pieces in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew growth. Think about investing in a specially designed wreath storage container or use wall hooks to hang them in a closet or storage area. For garlands, wrap them securely in tissue paper or plastic wrap to prevent them from tangling or getting damaged during storage.

Utilizing Space-Saving Solutions

Make the most of your holiday storage area with space-saving solutions. Vacuum-seal bags compress soft decorations, such as fabric tablecloths or seasonal pillows. Place these compacted items in airtight containers to guard against moisture and pests. Additionally, take advantage of vertical space by hanging hooks or shelves inside your storage area to keep bins and boxes off the ground. This not only creates more room but also helps prevent damage from potential leaks or floods.

Storing your holiday decor the right way keeps it safe and makes decorating your home the following year a breeze! Following these holiday storage tips ensures that your items remain in excellent condition for many more joyful seasons.

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