Written by Michele Smith

Picture yourself escaping reality now and then? Whether you’re just dreaming about a vacation home or ready to start shopping, it’s crucial to consider a variety of factors before jumping into such a big investment of your time and resources.

Weigh Financial Implications

Be clear on your why. Are you searching for a personal retreat, strictly an investment property, or will it be a mix of both? Once you know your goal, establish a realistic budget that takes into consideration ALL the expenses of owning a second property. For example, your quaint seaside property might come with hefty insurance costs if there are higher risks of natural disasters like flooding or hurricanes. If you’re counting on rental income, plan for a reduction in that income stream to cover the costs of a property management company, unless you’ll manage it yourself. Also set aside funds for property taxes and ongoing maintenance costs. Finally, check with your accountant about the tax ramifications, especially if you’re receiving rental income.

Assess the Location

Location is paramount when it comes to purchasing a vacation property. If you’ve only visited during peak tourist times, will you enjoy going there as much when things have quieted down? Will all your favorite hotspots be closed in the offseason? Also consider seasonal weather changes. If you’d like to use your retreat all year, will you embrace the fall and winter as much as the summer? Distance is also a factor. If you plan on visiting frequently, is a long drive realistic with your schedule or will you need to build in even more time and money for airfare?

Consider Long-Term Needs

Most likely you’re thinking of a vacation property as a longer-term investment. If it’s mainly for personal use, consider your changing needs over the years. If your children are grade-school age now, will you still have open weekends for traveling when their schedules become busier? As your family grows, will there be enough activities at the vacation home to accommodate everyone’s evolving interests? Finally, zoom out 20 or 30 years. Will you mind scaling stairs to get to the master bedroom or navigating a dirt road to reach your cabin tucked deep in the woods?

A vacation home is an exciting endeavor! Before getting too far along in the dreaming, reach out to a local real estate agent who can offer you a detailed market analysis to find the right property for you.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/destination-relaxation-tips-for-buying-a-vacation-property/

Written by: Michel Smith

Ah, the power of an inviting outdoor facade! If you’re selling your home, it’s important to set the right tone outside so shoppers know to expect a fantastic interior. But it’s also just fun to enjoy the warm fall fuzzies when pulling in your own driveway. Here are some fall curb appeal ideas that are easy to pull off – and best yet, won’t break the bank.

Visit the Pumpkin Patch

Head to the nearest pumpkin patch and choose your favorites!  You can flank your doorway with a few or get creative arranging clusters of pumpkins and gourds in various shapes, sizes and colors. You can dress up the display and add height by mixing in hay bales, crates or decorative baskets. For more bursts of fall color, you can also add gourds to other landscape areas such as gateways and gardens.

Plant Autumn Flowers

Mums, pansies and asters are excellent choices for fall. They can be planted in the front areas of plant beds for instant fall interest. You can also display them in pots or window boxes to add vibrant touches. While technically not flowers, other striking options include ornamental kale and cabbage.

Add Hardy Grasses

Along with annual plants, fall is a great time to incorporate switchgrass, fountain grass or blue fescue into your landscaping. These additions introduce texture and movement to your garden and can withstand cooler temperatures.

Highlight the Front Door

With cooler temperatures, fall is an ideal time to give your front door a fresh coat of paint. Choose a bold color to make a statement. Create a warm welcome by hanging a seasonal wreath made of natural materials like berries and twigs, along with touches of autumn foliage. You can also swap out your summer doormat for one with a fall theme or greeting.

Illuminate Your Landscape

Fall brings shorter daylight hours, so why not brighten up your landscape and highlight your home’s best features. Guests will appreciate the glowing welcome! Use spotlights to accentuate specific areas, such as driveways or large trees. Solar stakes are a good way to illuminate a walkway and come in a variety of styles and price ranges. As a bonus: Landscape lighting enhances security.

Welcome fall with open arms and enjoy the year’s most colorful season. Try one or all of these affordable ways to make the most of autumn and showcase your home.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/low-cost-ways-to-boost-fall-curb-appeal/

written by Michele Smith

It’s that time of year when you have free reign to frighten family and friends with yummy little concoctions. We’ve rounded up some favorites, listed here from easiest to more complicated, to spook your guests in a good way!

Mummy Hot Dogs

First up are some adorable mummified hot dogs. Simply wrap store-bought crescent rolls around hot dogs and add mustard or ketchup to create mummy eyes after baking. It’s an easy-to-grab appetizer that’s also kid-friendly and can be prepped in advance.

Frankenguac

This is the mad scientist project you’ve been waiting for – and it’s a fun one to have kids help customize. Blue tortilla chips arranged as monster hair? Yes! It’s a Frankenstein twist on classic guacamole that’s elevated with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Spider Deviled Eggs

In this Halloween take on the retro appetizer, black and green olives become tiny spiders perching spookily atop each egg. Bonus: All your goblins get a healthy dose of protein with this snack.

Candy Corn Crispies

A fun twist on the popular marshmallow and rice cereal dessert. This version is layered with orange and yellow food coloring to resemble the iconic candy. These treats are an ooey-gooey addition to any Halloween gathering.

Halloween Candy Bark

Who doesn’t love an easy bark recipe? This one features white chocolate and is packed with Halloween-themed candies, sprinkles and pretzels for some crunch. It’s also customizable and perfect for sharing with a large crowd.

Ghost Cupcakes

These spooktacular cupcakes are rich and chocolatey, getting a flavor boost from brewed coffee. White frosting is piped on and adorned with mini chocolate chips to resemble ghost eyes.

Jack O’ Lantern Cake

It’s a showstopper dessert with a toothy grin! You’ll save some time by starting with a cake mix. The layered cake is shaped and decorated to resemble a jack o’ lantern, and then topped with an orange marshmallow cream frosting.

Brain-Shaped Gelatin Mold

Get the attention of your guests with this realistic brain-shaped gelatin. The gross factor will be off the charts! While this version contains alcohol, you can easily trade out the peach schnapps for juice or water.

Ready to scare up some goodies? Try out one of these Halloween treats – whether you’re looking for something easy and fun or something more complex and hauntingly impressive.

original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/scare-up-these-halloween-treat-recipes/

written by: Michel Smith

Sellers, take note and embrace the holiday joy! If you’re planning to list your home this season, early fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the market. You’ll face less competition and buyers will be highly motivated to settle into new digs in time to ring in the new year.

1. Less Competition

During spring and summer, there are historically more homes on the market. During the holidays, there are typically fewer listings, making it easier for your home to really stand out and shine to potential buyers.

2. More Serious Buyers

Amid the hubbub, people are extra busy gift shopping and attending celebrations. Consequently, you’re not likely to get many just-looking buyers. Anyone home shopping during the holidays will be more focused and more likely to make a strong initial offer.

3. End-of-Year Financial Advantages

Finalizing a home sale before the end of the year can provide potential financial benefits, such as deductions on property taxes, mortgage interest and other home-related costs.

 4. Job Relocation Season

Since January is a common window for job relocations, buyers may need to settle into a city and home by the end of the holiday season. Your home may be the answer to their relocation prayers!

5. Faster Closings

Since everyone is busy decking the halls, buyers and sellers will both be interested in moving things along expeditiously. And because all the professionals involved for a sale will have fewer closings on their plate, your transaction will get even more attention.

6. Cozy Vibes

While winter weather can be daunting, nothing beats coming in from the cold to a warm, cozy home adorned for the season. Just turn up the heat, have a yummy treat in the oven and be sure to keep your sidewalks clear of snow and ice. Along with your festive outdoor lights, you’ll appeal to buyers’ sentimentality with all the decorative touches.

Listing your home during the most festive time of the year can lead to more serious and qualified buyers – and a fresh start for the new year. Contact your local Coldwell Banker® agent to get a jump start on listing your home in time for the holidays.

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/6-reasons-to-list-your-home-during-the-holidays/

Written by Michele Smith

As the weather cools, you’re officially entering some of the coziest days of cooking and baking! Whether you’re hosting a gathering for friends or want to treat your family to a special fall-themed breakfast, check out this collection of delicious autumn recipes.

Appetizers Infused With Fall Flavors

These Cranberry Brie Bites combine crescent dough, brie, cranberry sauce and fresh rosemary. They’re perfect for large get togethers and take less than 30 minutes to make. For a twist on classic hummus, try this savory Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Pumpkin Hummus. It’s ready in just five minutes and pairs nicely with pita chips or veggies.

Breakfasts Featuring Seasonal Favorites

Surprise your family with a warm, inviting fall breakfast. This Apple Dutch Baby Pancake, baked in one pan, comes out delightfully puffy and is best served right out of the oven. For a more savory breakfast option, this Healthy Sweet Potato and Bacon Breakfast Casserole is loaded with veggies and protein.

Dinners Offering the Ultimate in Comfort

It’s time to break out the slow cooker! Let it work its magic with this Set-It-And-Forget-It Pot Roast. Serve with egg noodles or potatoes for a hearty, melt-in-your-mouth dinner. Put a new spin on a classic by skipping the red sauce with this Butternut Squash Lasagna. It’s easy to assemble and is ideal for Sunday dinner or big crowd.

Desserts Capturing the Essence of Autumn

This classic Best Pumpkin Pie recipe is a must-have for any fall dessert lineup. This version features a rich and creamy filling made with pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk and fall spices – all encased in a flaky pie crust. For a decadent treat, this Caramel Apple Poke Cake is made with chopped apples, heavy cream and dulce de leche, and is topped with a fluffy frosting.

Along with the changing leaves, crisp air and shorter days, enjoy the comforting ritual of fall cooking and baking. Share the many flavors of autumn with one of these yummy recipes!

original recipe found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/fall-for-this-autumn-recipe-collection/

written by: Jennifer McGuire

Savor the waning days of summer by hosting one last hurrah during Labor Day weekend. Turn your backyard into a welcoming space to celebrate America’s “work hard, play hard spirit” and pay homage to the many achievements of workers nationwide. Here’s how to throw the ultimate Labor Day get together for your family and friends.

Choose a Hardworking Theme

Labor Day, first celebrated in 1882 and declared a holiday in 1894, has a rich American history – making a red, white and blue color scheme a great traditional choice for your party theme. Another fun approach is to lean into the rule that you shouldn’t wear white after Labor Day. Invite guests to wear white one last time and deck out your backyard with white table decor, streamers and balloons.

Be a Grill Master 

Backyard relaxation is synonymous with grilling. The possibilities are endless for creating a menu that’ll please diverse tastes. Start with a selection of marinated meats or the classic choice of burgers and hotdogs, served alongside grilled veggie skewers for vegetarian guests. Incorporate seasonal side dishes like grilled corn on the cob, potato salad and coleslaw. Need more inspiration? Check out some of these yummy BBQ-themed grilling options for a flavorful celebration.

Add a Memorable Twist with a Signature Drink

Along with traditional beverages (sparkling waters, sodas, wine, beer, etc.), top off your BBQ menu with a signature cocktail you can make in advance in a large batch. Some refreshing ideas include classic margaritas and watermelon mojitos, along with mocktail options like a non-alcohol frozen margarita.  And don’t forget about the kiddos! They’ll get a kick out of having their own special drink like a homemade fruit punch.

Pump Up the Entertainment

For a memorable Labor Day party, consider organizing a lively trivia game centered around Labor Day facts or summer traditions, and include some small prize giveaways.  Keep the kids entertained with a craft station where they can create patriotic-themed decorations. As the sun sets, you can extend the fun with an outdoor movie screening. Cozy things up with some blankets and pillows – and popcorn, of course.

Take full advantage of the last long weekend of the summer with a Labor Day bash that creates a lasting memory and gives everyone some well-deserved R&R.

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/how-to-host-the-ultimate-backyard-labor-day-party/

Written by Jennifer Mcguire

As summer winds down, the back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and, let’s face it – anxiety.  You need a game plan to navigate the shift from the laid-back days of summer to the more structured routines necessary for the academic year. With a little planning, you can achieve back-to-school nirvana and lay the groundwork for a successful school year.

1. Establish a Family Calendar

At the core of your organizational system, spend some time creating a calendar system that works for your family. Whether it’s a large, easy-to-read wall calendar or a digital version, take the time to set it up early so you can work through any kinks and acclimate everyone. Use it to track school events, extracurricular activities and family commitments. Once school starts, you can also use the calendar to block out time for homework.

2. Create a Study Space

Designate a quiet, clutter-free area in your home as a dedicated study space. Be sure it has ample lighting and is stocked with all the essentials like pens, notebooks, a calculator and a computer. Invite your child to personalize the space to make it more inviting and conducive to studying.

3. Don’t forget to Start a Morning Routine

Mornings are always crazy, but that first week back can be brutal! Ease the pain by implementing an earlier bedtime a few weeks before school begins. Everyone’s internal clock will get a reset, cutting down on the challenges that come with sleep-deprived students. Encourage your child to prepare as much as possible the night before by laying out clothes and loading a backpack.

4. Gather School Supplies

Start by reviewing the school’s supply list and then check which items you may already have at home. To keep costs down, take advantage of any back-to-school sales. Involve your child in the process to build excitement about the coming new school year.

5. Stay Informed

Regularly check school websites and teacher communications for other updates – especially if you have students at more than one school. Remember to sign up for any teacher communication or text lists to stay informed throughout the school year.

Getting organized for the back-to-school season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can set the stage for success by investing a little time during the final weeks of summer to get organized and gather supplies.

original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/rein-in-back-to-school-chaos-5-tips-to-stay-organized/

Written by Jennifer Mcguire

Listing your home in the late summer might sound daunting. But selling a home in August can be a good strategy, as the market is typically active with buyers motivated to move for the new school year or to settle in before the holidays. Make your property stand out with these easy-to-implement strategies.

Leverage the Longer Summer Days

Longer days mean you have more daylight hours to show your home. Daytime showings allow sunlight to flood your rooms to better highlight architectural details, finishes and flooring. In general, natural light makes spaces appear larger, warmer and more inviting.

Keep Up the Curb Appeal

First impressions are crucial. You’ll need to be at the top of your outdoor maintenance game. That means grass is always cut, weeds are pulled and shrubs are trimmed. Other essential tasks include power washing the exterior, cleaning windows and touching up paint where needed. Work with your real estate agent to understand the best way to bump up your curb appeal within your budget.

Show Off Your Outdoor Spaces

Maybe you have a spacious deck or a thriving garden. It’s worth spending a little time staging these areas to highlight them as extensions of your living space. Be sure these spaces are clean, inviting and free of weeds or debris. Consider adding some outdoor lighting to create ambiance and emphasize features like walkways, trees or sitting areas.

Add Seasonal Touches

Turn up the summertime charm with a few easy touches both outdoors and indoors. Add late-summer blooming plants like asters and mums near your front door. Place fresh, seasonal flowers around your home to add color and fragrance. Incorporate pillows and throws in late summer colors like deep yellows and oranges. Another appreciated touch: Add a tray of lemonade and glasses to your counter or island for open houses or showings. Lastly, August can get hot and muggy! Keep your air conditioning running at a comfortable temperature so your guests have a distraction-free touring experience.

With a few extra steps, you can capture the magic of summer season and help potential buyers picture themselves relaxing on your deck with a cool drink. Remember these buyers are highly motivated, so make your property the one that shines!

original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/late-summer-sales-how-to-grab-buyers-attention-in-august/

Written by Carma Stahnke

In today’s bustling real estate market, ensuring your home outshines the competition is crucial to cinching a quick and profitable sale. These home selling strategies, along with the guidance of a trusted real estate agent, can make all the difference in a competitive landscape.

Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions are not just lasting – they’re everything. A manicured lawn, trimmed trees and well-placed flowers help create a warm and welcoming feel that brings buyers through the door. Small touches like a freshly painted front door, new house numbers, a charming mailbox and inviting lighting can also have a big impact.

Declutter and Depersonalize

Your home tells a story, but now it’s time to let buyers envision their own narratives within its walls. Decluttering not only creates a neutral canvas – it is also key to maximizing space and allowing the home’s features to stand out. By removing all personal items, like picture frames, toys and knick-knacks, buyers can more easily imagine their lives unfolding there while making the interior appealing to a broader audience.

Illuminate the Possibilities

Light has the magical ability to transform spaces, making them appear more open, airy and welcoming. Pull back the curtains, open the blinds and let the natural light flood in. For showings later in the day, ensure that your home is well-lit with ambient, task and accent lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Refresh and Repair

A well-maintained home speaks volumes about the care it has received. Address those small repair jobs you’ve been putting off – fix leaky faucets, replace outdated hardware and give the walls a fresh coat of paint. These details contribute to the overall feeling that your home is ready to embrace new owners without burdening them with a to-do list.

Stage to Sell

Staging is the art of dressing up your home for its market debut and goes beyond simply cleaning and decluttering. Furniture, artwork and accent pieces should showcase the flow of your space without overcrowding it. Your agent can help you stage your home to highlight its strengths, downplay its weaknesses and appeal to the greatest possible pool of prospective buyers.

Highlight Unique Features

Whether it’s a cozy window seat, original hardwood floors or a remodeled kitchen, you want your home’s unique features to be front and center. Highlighting these elements in your listing information and during showings can make your home stand out while creating a memorable impression.

Lean Into Digital Marketing

In today’s digital age, your online listing is your home’s first showing. You should work with an agent who will help you arrange professional photography and virtual tours that engage potential buyers before they even step through the door.

Price it Right

Finally, all your efforts must be complemented by the right asking price. An overpriced home can linger on the market, while one priced competitively can spark interest and even bidding wars. Your real estate agent will help you set a price that’s in line with recent sales while reflecting your home’s value.

Making your property stand out in the market doesn’t have to be a daunting endeavor. With these home selling strategies, you can not only speed up the sale process but also potentially increase your property’s value in the eyes of buyers. Remember, you’re not just selling a house – you’re selling a dream and a future full of possibilities.

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/making-your-home-stand-out-strategies-for-a-successful-sale/

Written by Jennifer McGuire

You may be ready to start an exciting adventure in a new home, but what about your pets? Some furry family members may find moving to an unfamiliar place stressful, but there are ways to ease them into it with a little advance planning.

Pet-Friendly Properties

Living harmoniously with pets is a top priority for homeowners. The APPA National Pet Owners Survey by the American Pet Products Association estimates that 70% of all U.S. households – roughly 90.5 million – owns one or more pets. That’s a remarkable figure that impacts many aspects of the economy, including residential real estate. People love their pets and today’s home buyers are seeking properties that reflect it. For some house hunters, finding a pet-friendly home is as simple as getting a place with a fenced-in yard, hard-surface flooring or space for a litter box. Others, however, are looking for more deluxe amenities for Fido and Fluffy.

The Pampered Pet

Some pet-centric home designs cater to the four-legged family members. Today’s popular custom details include under-cabinet food stations, pet washing facilities, and built-in crates, beds or pet suites. Also sought after are high-tech smart-home features like electronic pet doors and remote-access security cameras that let homeowners keep an eye on their pets when they’re away.

Park, Park, Park!

Location matters to pet owners. A pet-friendly community is a must, and proximity to an off-leash dog park or long nature trail away from busy streets is a bonus. And while parents of young children often make school districts a priority, some pet parents also seek homes close to their veterinarian, boarding facility and doggy daycare.

This Way Home

Show your pets the lay of the land at the new house. Determine where your pets’ toys, bed and water bowl will go, then take them on a home tour to familiarize them with their designated areas. Be sure to examine the home for safety hazards, then let them poke around and discover new scents and favorite spots. Cats may feel more comfortable adjusting to one room at a time, so start them off in a smaller space and let them take their time exploring.

Adjustment periods in a new home are easy when you keep these tips in mind and stick to your pets’ regular feeding and walking routines. They should barely notice the move and continue living their usual happy lives in the comfort of your new home.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/smart-moving-tips-for-homeowners-with-pets/