Fairfield County Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.vanderblue.com/blog/Copyright VanderBlue.com2024-03-27T10:41:37-07:00tag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:15359Exploring Innovative Design Trends in Connecticut's New Construction Homes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_18.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Connecticut, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, has long been a hub for architectural innovation. As we step into a new era, the design trends shaping the construction of new homes in Connecticut are evolving to meet the demands of modern living. From sustainable practices to sleek minimalist aesthetics, let's delve into the exciting new trends defining the architecture and design of new construction homes across the state.
Sustainable Living
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/solar panels.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices in Connecticut. Homebuyers are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency, renewable materials, and green technologies. Builders are incorporating features such as solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient appliances to reduce carbon footprints and utility costs. Additionally, the use of recycled and locally sourced materials not only minimizes environmental impact but also adds a unique character to each home.
Open Concept Floor Plans
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/open concept floorplan.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
The traditional compartmentalized layout is making way for open concept floor plans that promote fluidity and connectivity between spaces. Connecticut homeowners are opting for expansive living areas that seamlessly blend the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, creating an inviting environment for gatherings and socializing. This design trend not only maximizes natural light and ventilation but also enhances the overall sense of spaciousness and comfort.
Modern Minimalism
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/minimalist.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and a focus on functionality define the contemporary design sensibility embraced by many new construction homes in Connecticut. From sleek cabinetry to uncluttered interiors, the emphasis is on simplicity and elegance. Neutral color palettes, natural materials such as wood and stone, and strategic use of textures add warmth and sophistication to minimalist spaces. This design ethos not only creates a serene retreat but also reflects a modern lifestyle characterized by simplicity and mindfulness.
Outdoor Living Spaces
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/outdoor living.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Connecticut's picturesque landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for incorporating outdoor living spaces into new construction homes. From expansive decks to cozy patios and lush gardens, homeowners are seeking to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and lounging areas create inviting retreats for relaxation and entertainment, allowing residents to fully embrace the beauty of their surroundings throughout the year.
Smart Home Technology
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/smart home.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
The integration of smart home technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in new construction homes across Connecticut. From automated lighting and thermostats to security systems and entertainment hubs, homeowners are embracing innovative solutions that enhance convenience, comfort, and security. With the ability to control various aspects of their home remotely via smartphones or voice commands, residents can enjoy greater peace of mind and efficiency in their daily lives.
As the landscape of new construction homes in Connecticut continues to evolve, these design trends reflect a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic innovation. Whether it's embracing eco-friendly practices, reimagining interior layouts, or incorporating cutting-edge technology, the architecture and design of new homes in Connecticut are shaping the way we live and interact with our environment. With a blend of timeless elegance and modern convenience, these trends promise to redefine the concept of home for generations to come.2024-03-27T09:22:46-07:002024-03-27T10:41:37-07:00Mariana Patronetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:15326Combat Buyer's Remorse<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_17.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
So you did your research, you looked at model homes, you investigated neighborhoods and school districts, you made an offer, and—voila!—you’re a homeowner! This should be one of the happiest days of your life…so why do you feel like driving off a cliff ala Thelma and Louise?
Well, it’s called buyer’s remorse, and it’s as universal as the common cold. So take a deep breath, do a few yoga poses and relax. It’s going to be okay. Everyone goes through it. Statistics are on your side: 74 percent of first-time buyers say they like their new home better than their previous residence, and 67 percent of repeat buyers like theirs better.
And anyway, you legally have three days to change your mind and cancel the contract. Right?
Wrong! No such law exists. The only way you can cancel the contract is if cancellation rights are written in the contract. Generally, a buyer can cancel only for failure to qualify for mortgage financing after a diligent and good-faith effort, or based on the reasonable disapproval of some aspect of the home.
The best way to prevent (or at least mitigate) buyer’s remorse is to prepare yourself in advance, long before you ever sign on the dotted line. Write out the pros and cons. Do your homework. Then relax and enjoy your new home.
Best practice as always is to do your research. Find a Realtor who understands you wants and needs.2024-03-21T08:50:57-07:002024-03-21T09:00:11-07:00Marlene Harrisontag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:15247Tips for Mortgage Buyers<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_9.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In the fast- paced realm of real estate, cash buyers often have the upper hand making it challenging for mortgage-dependent buyers to secure their dream homes. While the competition may seem fierce, there are strategic approaches that can level the playing field. Here are some valuable tips for mortgage buyers looking to tip the scales in their favor:
1. Get Pre-Approved
Before diving into the competitive market, obtain a mortgage pre-approval. This not only signals your seriousness to sellers but also streamlines the process, making your offer more appealing compared to a potential buyer still navigating the mortgage approval stage
2. Work with a Reputable Lender
Partnering with a reliable lender can make a significant difference. Sellers often prefer established lenders with a reputation for efficiency and reliability. A solid partnership can provide the reassurance sellers need when considering non-cash offers.
3. Flexible Closing Timeline
Offering a flexible closing timeline can be an enticing factor for sellers. Cash buyers often have the advantage of swift transactions, but a mortgage buyer willing to accommodate the seller's preferred closing date may stand out in a competitive scenario.
4. Increase Earnest Money Deposit
Boosting your earnest money deposit demonstrates commitment and seriousness. A higher deposit can be reassuring to sellers, making them more inclined to consider your offer over a cash buyer's.
5. Craft a Personalized Offer
Go beyond the numbers and inject a personal touch into your offer. Include a heartfelt letter to the seller expressing your love for the property and why it would be the perfect home for you. Creating an emotional connection may sway sellers in your favor.
6. Waive Contingencies Wisely
While it's generally advised not to waive important contingencies, judiciously consider which ones you can afford to forego. Waiving certain contingencies, like a home sale contingency, may make your offer more competitive.
7. Stay Informed About the Market
Understanding the local real estate market is crucial. Stay informed about recent sales, pricing trends, and the overall demand in the area. This knowledge can help you make competitive offers and negotiate effectively.
8. Engage a Skilled Real Estate Agent
A seasoned real estate agent can be your greatest ally in navigating a competitive market. Their experience and negotiation skills can help you craft winning offers and navigate potential pitfalls in the process.
9. Be Patient and Persistent
Realize that securing a home in a competitive market may take time. Be patient, stay persistent, and be prepared to make multiple offers. Your perseverance may pay off in the end. By implementing these strategies, mortgage-dependent buyers can enhance their chances of success in a market dominated by cash buyers. Remember, while cash offers may have their advantages, a well-prepared and strategic mortgage offer can be just as compelling.
10. Working with a Real Estate Team
Working with a real estate team like the Vanderblue Team can greatly improve your chances of getting a house with multiple cash offers and you have a mortgage. Absolutely, collaborating with a seasoned real estate team can significantly enhance your prospects in a competitive market where cash offers are prevalent, and you are reliant on a mortgage.
11. Market Insight
Real estate teams have a wealth of market knowledge. They can provide valuable insights into current trends, pricing dynamics, and the specific conditions of the local market. This information is crucial for crafting competitive offers.
12. Negotiation Skills
Experienced real estate agents are skilled negotiators. In a situation with multiple cash offers, their ability to negotiate on your behalf becomes indispensable. They can navigate complex negotiations, ensuring your offer stands out without compromising your position.
13. Network and Relationships
Established real estate teams often have a vast network and strong relationships with other agents. This can be advantageous when dealing with multiple offers, as they can leverage these connections to gather information, gauge the competitiveness of other offers, and potentially sway the decision in your favor.
14. Access to Off-Market Listings
Real estate teams may have access to off-market listings or upcoming properties. This can be a valuable advantage, allowing you to explore opportunities that may not be visible to the general public. Off-market listings could mean less competition and increased chances of securing a property.
For information call Margaret McCannon 203-550-7254
Email-Margaret@vanderblue.com
<!DOCTYPE html><html lang="en" style="height: 100%;"><head> <meta charset="UTF-8"> <title>VBT Newsletter March 2024</title><!--[if !mso]><!--> <link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Raleway:wght@300;400;500;700&display=swap" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"><link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"><link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"><link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"><link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <style>@import url(https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Raleway:wght@300;400;500;700&display=swap);@import url(https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap);@import url(https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap);@import url(https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap);@import url(https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Lato:wght@300;400;700&display=swap);</style><!--<![endif]--></head><body id="irhg" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; color: #242745; background-color: #00000000;"><table cellspacing="0" id="i7gkqc" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="in4d24" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="iidmon" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; font-size: 0; width: 600px;"><a href="https://vanderblue.com/" target="_blank" id="ilp55s" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%;"><img src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/higginsgroupdesign.com/users/159395/uploads/pictures/3012/original/Vanderblue_at_HG_Forbes_horz%28black%29.png" id="izj6bg" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; outline: 0; background-color: #00000000;"></a><div id="iwsotp" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 31px; color: #242745; background-color: #00000000; margin-top: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">WHAT'S HAPPENING IN MARCH<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"></div><div id="iq7taq" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 19px; line-height: 1; letter-spacing: 4.2px; color: #242745; text-transform: uppercase; background-color: #00000000; font-family: Raleway, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;">YOUR MONTHLY REAL ESTATE NEWSLETTER<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">FROm THE VANDERBLUE TEAM</div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ifmueb" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ia2opm" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n" style="box-sizing: border-box; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; background-color: #ffffff; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #389eb0;"><div id="id1027" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/what-is-hard-money-lending/" target="_blank" id="ilkvo3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Featured Article of the Month</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="idxd6q" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="in8kiy" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="i6tb86-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/what-is-hard-money-lending/" id="iot1dq" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="iz0or6" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/ab43b6ab-8653-4e0e-ae2a-43e7320b424e-27bef39e1c8ebbd50bb6d39d1fffa5c5.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; background: rgb(236, 236, 236) url('data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyNCAyNCIgc3R5bGU9ImZpbGw6IHJnYmEoMCwwLDAsMC4xNSk7IHRyYW5zZm9ybTogc2NhbGUoMC43NSkiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik04LjUgMTMuNWwyLjUgMyAzLjUtNC41IDQuNSA2SDVtMTYgMVY1YTIgMiAwIDAgMC0yLTJINWMtMS4xIDAtMiAuOS0yIDJ2MTRjMCAxLjEuOSAyIDIgMmgxNGMxLjEgMCAyLS45IDItMnoiPjwvcGF0aD4KICAgICAgPC9zdmc+') no-repeat scroll 50% 50% / contain padding-box border-box; padding: 0;"></a><div id="i4erbt-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-family: undefined !important;">What is Hard Money Lending?</div><div id="i4erbt-2-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-top: 6px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-style: italic; font-family: undefined !important;">By Laurie Quatrella | REALTOR</div><div id="i88m68-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;"><i id="i6zjh" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: undefined !important !important;">"Investors often consider using “hard money” or funds from private sources to secure funding for investment opportunities they are considering. What exactly is “Hard Money” and when does it make sense to consider using a hard money loan for an investment opportunity?" </i></div><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/what-is-hard-money-lending/" id="irmy13-2-3" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Read More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ifmicq" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="it4kjr" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-3-2-5" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #389eb0;"><div id="ihqctw" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/the-joy-of-decluttering-your-home/" target="_blank" id="ik6r0s" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Design Tips for Homeowners</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ixgj0u" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ixgj75" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="i6tb86-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/the-joy-of-decluttering-your-home/" id="ipmt4r" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="izvilk" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/7facde7d-26ec-40fa-8d6d-33b7f114eb4e-db48dfa1d845408281fab766b0252940.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; background: rgb(236, 236, 236) url('data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyNCAyNCIgc3R5bGU9ImZpbGw6IHJnYmEoMCwwLDAsMC4xNSk7IHRyYW5zZm9ybTogc2NhbGUoMC43NSkiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik04LjUgMTMuNWwyLjUgMyAzLjUtNC41IDQuNSA2SDVtMTYgMVY1YTIgMiAwIDAgMC0yLTJINWMtMS4xIDAtMiAuOS0yIDJ2MTRjMCAxLjEuOSAyIDIgMmgxNGMxLjEgMCAyLS45IDItMnoiPjwvcGF0aD4KICAgICAgPC9zdmc+') no-repeat scroll 50% 50% / contain padding-box border-box; padding: 0;"></a><div id="ifrbew" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/thoughts-on-design-how-to-turn-a-house-into-a-home/" target="_blank" id="ij66cr" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; display: block; text-decoration: none;">The Joy of Decluttering Your Home</a></div><div id="i4erbt-2-3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-top: 6px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-style: italic; font-family: undefined !important;">By Linda Stone | REALTOR<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"></div><div id="i88m68-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">In our fast-paced world, our homes often become the silent witnesses to our busy lives, not only collecting memories but also tons of junk we no longer need or use. Decluttering your home can seem like a daunting task, but it is a deeply rewarding process that not only transforms your space but also your state of mind. Let’s explore the art of decluttering and how it can turn your home into an organized, and joyful living environment.</div><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/blog/the-joy-of-decluttering-your-home/" id="irmy13-2" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Read More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="iljh8i" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="iz6o71" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-3-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #389eb0;"><div id="ix9u7y" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 29px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/communities/" target="_blank" id="ixcef7" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-size: 29px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">March Events in Fairfield County</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="iitf66" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i2h335" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="i0i4th-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><table cellspacing="0" id="i9puob-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 0; width: 100%;" width="100%" height="40"><tbody id="i4m8kj" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr id="i2knf7" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td id="imms8h-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; vertical-align: top; width: 60%; padding-right: 20px;" width="60%" valign="top"><div id="i8rz4y" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 10px; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://rowaytonarts.org/" target="_blank" id="ijvxts" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 10px; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Westport Sanitarium Escape Room<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">Westport, CT<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span id="itbixc" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;"><i id="iqe80v" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: undefined !important !important;">Tuesdays-Thursdays<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">11:30 am - 5 pm<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">Friday &amp; Saturday<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">11:30 am - 8 pm<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"></i></span></a></div><div id="iqys3k-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: undefined !important;">Can you uncover the truth of the Westport Sanitarium? Your group of up to ten people have one hour before the sanitarium staff return and begin your treatment.<br />This is a great group activity! Wonderful for birthdays, company activities or a club outing. Fun for the whole family, this escape room is recommended for children over eight. </div><a href="https://westporthistory.org/event/into-the-sanitarium-escape-room/" id="i8tf7o-2-2-2" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Learn More</a></td><td id="i4evpg-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; vertical-align: top; width: 40%; text-align: center;" width="40%" valign="top" align="center"><a href="https://westporthistory.org/event/into-the-sanitarium-escape-room/" id="ivx7rg" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 103%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="ibr762" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/ecb2e54c-0c17-4940-8b3c-2bb5b6f4adf6-b8a9fda3c04fedb2cd770e70bc6f32fb.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 103%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; outline: 0; background: rgb(236, 236, 236) url('data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyNCAyNCIgc3R5bGU9ImZpbGw6IHJnYmEoMCwwLDAsMC4xNSk7IHRyYW5zZm9ybTogc2NhbGUoMC43NSkiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik04LjUgMTMuNWwyLjUgMyAzLjUtNC41IDQuNSA2SDVtMTYgMVY1YTIgMiAwIDAgMC0yLTJINWMtMS4xIDAtMiAuOS0yIDJ2MTRjMCAxLjEuOSAyIDIgMmgxNGMxLjEgMCAyLS45IDItMnoiPjwvcGF0aD4KICAgICAgPC9zdmc+') no-repeat scroll 50% 50% / contain padding-box border-box; background-color: #ffffff; padding: 0;"></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="irhhy6" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="iforp5" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="is0uon-3-2-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px;"><div id="iynrqq-3-2-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; min-height: auto; padding: 0; background-color: #389eb0; height: 2px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="iu39ll" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i9xov1" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ivad6m-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px;"><table cellspacing="0" id="ikdo8v-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: 560px;" width="560" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr id="ivtyr" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td id="ilp2w8-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 280px; padding-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px;" width="280" valign="top"><a href="https://patch.com/connecticut/norwalk/calendar/event/20240321/13724be5-7a61-47e7-a332-71c3c72025fe/pickleball-for-all-a-charity-event-for-elderhouse" id="i8twqu" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 270px; height: 200px; position: relative;"><img id="ig8vly" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/18910336-851b-4614-b60b-146123046874-ec19675b46a2b7fac82adea6c5275dfc.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 270px; height: 200px; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding: 0;" width="270" height="200"></a><div id="ipkawx" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 10px; width: 270px; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://stamford-downtown.com/events/restaurant-weeks/" target="_blank" id="iffpdc" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 10px; width: 270px; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Pickleball For All - A Charity Event for ElderHouse<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">Stamford, CT<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span id="iybvby" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: normal;"><i id="insqaq" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">Mar 21 | 6pm - 9pm</i></span></a></div><div id="in2to6-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; white-space: pre-wrap; margin-bottom: 20px; width: 270px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">Tickets are on sale now for “Pickleball for All – A Charity Event for ElderHouse”. This exciting new fundraising event will take place on Thursday, March 21 from 6pm-9pm at Pickleball America, one of the largest indoor pickleball venues in the US, located at The Stamford Town Center.<br />This fabulous event space is perfect for all levels of play, and even for those who do not wish to play, enjoy great food, drink, and friends while supporting ElderHouse. There will be a silent auction with “Opening Day” baseball tickets (great seats!) and much more….</div><a href="https://patch.com/connecticut/norwalk/calendar/event/20240321/13724be5-7a61-47e7-a332-71c3c72025fe/pickleball-for-all-a-charity-event-for-elderhouse" id="i0qrf8-3" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 20px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 400; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 15px;">Learn More</a></td><td id="im15at-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 280px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 10px;" width="280" valign="top"><a href="https://patch.com/connecticut/fairfield/calendar/event/20240322/486e04ce-ef4f-4b3b-81b3-001ec9d46f1c/80s-vs-90s-dance-party-funraiser-to-support-wakeman-boys-girls-club" id="imcn7w" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 270px; height: 200px; position: relative;"><img id="iouped" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/d83fc6ee-f0ba-4a50-9486-f554e1e9b4fe-ad3702cda03aa8d547bb4bf571a702d0.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 270px; height: 200px; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding: 0;" width="270" height="200"></a><div id="i9po4y" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 10px; width: 270px; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://shucommunitytheatre.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=220" target="_blank" id="imm93p" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 10px; width: 270px; display: block; text-decoration: none;">“80s vs 90s Dance Party FUNRaiser” to support Wakeman Boys &amp; Girls Club<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">Fairfield CT<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i id="i62pw2" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">Mar 22 | 8pm</i></a></div><div id="i9e3ne-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; white-space: pre-wrap; margin-bottom: 20px; width: 270px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">A Fundraiser event benefitting Wakeman Boys &amp; Girls Club will take place on Friday, March 22nd at Park City Music Hall in Black Rock.<br />Get ready to groove and shake it on the dance floor with DJ Laki @gablaki. A throwback dance party like no other, featuring the greatest hits from two favorite decades - the 80s and the 90s!<br />With the incredible Paul Herman The Prince of Motivation, pumping up the energy, there's no chance you'll be able to resist busting out your best moves. Dress to impress!</div><a href="https://patch.com/connecticut/fairfield/calendar/event/20240322/486e04ce-ef4f-4b3b-81b3-001ec9d46f1c/80s-vs-90s-dance-party-funraiser-to-support-wakeman-boys-girls-club" id="iaxgk1-3" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 20px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 400; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; margin-bottom: 15px;">Learn More</a></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="igqzyg" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="iwqhhh" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #389eb0;"><div id="ioaj1w" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; font-size: 28px; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.shoppurepoetry.com/" target="_blank" id="ijr5k8" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #389eb0; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; font-size: 28px; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Neighborhood Network Highlight</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ic1msz" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i0cc5q" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ikqwn3" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px;"><table cellspacing="0" id="igk67g" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: 560px;" width="560" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td id="isx9oj" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 170px;" width="170" valign="top"><a href="https://www.shoppurepoetry.com/" id="ix3xq1" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-right: 10px; display: inline-block; width: 160px; height: 220px; position: relative;"><img id="imohjt" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/c2660197-6695-4bc8-a32a-3ec95d267ad8-602e12bf7c3db517677603efeeb20737.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 160px; height: 220px; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding: 0;" width="160" height="220"></a></td><td id="ij0ge4" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 390px;" width="390" valign="top"><a href="https://www.shoppurepoetry.com/" id="iaasni" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-left: 10px; display: inline-block; width: 380px; height: 220px; position: relative;"><img id="ies17w" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/c77fc898-5b1d-4f69-9b03-9e79801b4e18-477fd38ccb7b54a05c50d65fd5d7c9ba.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 380px; height: 220px; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding: 0;" width="380" height="220"></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="irzrxf" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="iog322" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="i6tb86-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><div id="i4erbt-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">Pure Poetry | 4244 Madison Ave Trumbull, CT</div><div id="i88m68-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">Pure Poetry is things comfy &amp; cozy, feel good items that not only smell good, but make you feel good. A little bit of everything.... good reads found along the way, apothecary we love from New York to Boston... fun fashion &amp; gifts for the littlest ones! Most importantly, we celebrate many local artisans in Fairfield County, where we are located.</div><a href="https://www.shoppurepoetry.com/" id="irmy13-2-2" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Learn More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="iavb1d" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="is9p6u" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #242745;"><div id="i5zwxm" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 28px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/sellers/" target="_blank" id="iwu6xk" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 28px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Fairfield County Market Snapshot</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="imt0pg" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ih6kkh" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="i6tb86" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px; padding-top: 20px; padding-bottom: 0px;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/sellers/" id="idms92" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="i8hwqa" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/55c5280d-8532-4a78-8719-ddaa1caf5f7b-b2b27b6cf30e35402e89ef3222c9b3b6.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; background: rgb(236, 236, 236) url('data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyNCAyNCIgc3R5bGU9ImZpbGw6IHJnYmEoMCwwLDAsMC4xNSk7IHRyYW5zZm9ybTogc2NhbGUoMC43NSkiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik04LjUgMTMuNWwyLjUgMyAzLjUtNC41IDQuNSA2SDVtMTYgMVY1YTIgMiAwIDAgMC0yLTJINWMtMS4xIDAtMiAuOS0yIDJ2MTRjMCAxLjEuOSAyIDIgMmgxNGMxLjEgMCAyLS45IDItMnoiPjwvcGF0aD4KICAgICAgPC9zdmc+') no-repeat scroll 50% 50% / contain padding-box border-box; background-color: #ffffff; padding: 0;"></a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ihh5kl" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ijt91s" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-7" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #242745;"><div id="irk3oz" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/property-search/detail/192/24000966/68-fox-st-fairfield-ct-06824/" target="_blank" id="iwqimn" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Featured Listing</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="i2ir8m" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="itmvqy" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="iuqs3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/property-search/detail/192/24000966/68-fox-st-fairfield-ct-06824/" id="il4ac8" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="ixr6hq" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/dadf1cab-4acf-46ba-9c34-c73b5f3bbba6-a5a3a7db006f7df47faa5d06b767a1e0.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; outline: 0; background-color: #ECECEC; padding: 0;"></a><div id="iisey-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">68 Fox Street, Fairfield | $2,400,000</div><div id="i1ukr-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">This elegant beach Colonial was built in 2020 and provides a stunning blend of design and function. As you approach the home, your first impression is etched by the grandeur of a multi-paned hardwood front door. The door stands as a masterful work of craftsmanship, setting the tone for the refined sanctuary that lies beyond.<br />The homeowner’s design eye has carried the seascape to the interior canvas. Soothing shades of blue, sand and subtle gray tones evoke a peaceful, calming retreat that echoes the serenity of nearby Long Island Sound. Open, flexibly designed first floor living space features 9 foot ceilings, custom crafted, detailed cabinetry and just the right blend of private and public spaces. The flowing floorplan accentuates comfortable,year-round livability.</div><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/property-search/detail/192/24000966/68-fox-st-fairfield-ct-06824/" id="iqcn6-2-2" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Learn More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="iaqbew" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i7fksr" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-6" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; width: 600px; padding-top: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-bottom: 20px; padding-left: 20px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #242745;"><div id="ikcid4" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; background-color: #00000000; margin-top: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 1px; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: #00000000; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/" target="_blank" id="iheyg1" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; background-color: #00000000; margin-top: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 1px; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: #00000000; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Just Sold</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="im5ono" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i7mlh7" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="iuqs3-2-2-3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/property-search/detail/192/170615426/8-mary-jane-ln-westport-ct-06880/" id="i9uwji" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; position: relative;"><img id="i0j4bl" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/23f4550e-aa93-4f36-9e9e-bdf1d2a318a6-76aa5b1259cada608aa78f0a7280811d.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; background-repeat: no-repeat; outline: 0; background-color: #ECECEC; padding: 0;"></a><div id="iisey-2-2-3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">8 Mary Jane Lane, Westport | $1,785,000</div><div id="i1ukr-2-2-2-2-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">Introducing the epitome of classic colonial elegance, nestled on a coveted cul-de-sac in a sought-after area of Westport. This meticulously maintained home, boasting numerous updates, offers timeless charm &amp; modern convenience. Centrally located, this residence is conveniently close to award-winning schools, an equestrian hunt club, renowned restaurants, Compo beach, metro north &amp; the vibrant downtown scene. It effortlessly checks every box, providing not just a home but the lifestyle of your dreams.</div><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/property-search/detail/192/170615426/8-mary-jane-ln-westport-ct-06880/" id="iqcn6-2-2-3-2-2" target="_blank" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Learn More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ibq2bu" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ik5lmx" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-4" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #242745;"><div id="ipxt1d" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; background-color: #00000000; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/" target="_blank" id="i5dy9h" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; background-color: #00000000; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Coming Soon</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="i9qswl" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i0dn4r" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="iuqs3-2-2-3-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><img id="i5dn1f" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/5c984bb8-fbac-40de-a360-30b628ecca12-50ddc680b45e9b96ec218b6676202abc.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; position: relative; outline: 0; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0;"><div id="iisey-2-2-3-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">931 Old Post Road, Fairfield 06824 | $3,500,000</div><div id="i1ukr-2-2-2-2-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">The fabulous in-town landmark, the circa 1850 Samuel A. Nichols House, offers unparalleled beauty and sophistication. The magnificent residence spans 4,936 square feet and offers a luxurious and private living experience. Featuring 5 Bedrooms and 5 full and 1 half Baths, with modern updates and recent improvements throughout, this residence provides ample space for a growing family and anentertaining lifestyle. Located on the iconic Old Post Road, this fabulous historic district of Fairfield treasure offers prime location that is within walking distance to shopping, fabulous restaurants, sandy beaches and Metro-North train station to shoreline points and NYC.</div><a href id="iqcn6-2-2-3-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px 20px; height: 30px; font-size: 14px; display: inline-block; border-radius: 15px; border: 2px solid transparent; background-color: #389eb0; color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; margin-bottom: 0;">Learn More</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ivjppg" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i7zkqu" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="is0uon-3-2-2-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px;"><div id="iynrqq-3-2-2-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; min-height: auto; padding: 0; background-color: #389eb0; height: 2px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="im7o9b" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i8u5xz" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="iuqs3-2-2-3-2-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; width: 600px;"><img id="i85oue" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/4236a042-d3fa-4bac-8c1b-187bce6b4203-f36d326daa7da2f9d8795c20558efb71.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; width: 100%; height: auto; overflow: hidden; object-fit: cover; position: relative; outline: 0; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0;"><div id="iisey-2-2-3-2-2-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">91 Algonquin Road, Fairfield 06825 |<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i id="i1fq9e" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: undefined !important;">Price Upon Request</i></div><div id="i1ukr-2-2-2-2-3-2-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; font-family: undefined !important;">Once owned by the Bishop of Bridgeport,“Stormhaven” is a piece of Fairfield history. Thisin-town two acre estate in the sought-afterBrooklawn country club area was built in 1922,and then expertly added to and renovated. The home makes themost of the antique warmth of paneling and crownmoldings, four functioning fireplaces, solid cherrydoors, refinished hardwood floors, and floor toceiling windows, and ancient servant bells. At thesame time, the bright and airy rooms and dreambathrooms have high end tiles and plumbingfixtures that are completelymodern andinviting.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i id="i7t2tl" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: undefined !important;">For more information contact Julie Vanderblue: Julie@Vanderblue.com | 203.257.6994</i></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ilj6xy" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="i1uo6h" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ixad7n-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; border-width: 15px 15px 15px 15px; border-style: solid; border-color: #817f80;"><div id="i1q6pi" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #817f80; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/" target="_blank" id="itjf6g" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #817f80; font-size: 32px; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; white-space: pre-wrap; text-align: center; font-style: italic; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; background-color: #00000000; font-weight: 700; display: block; text-decoration: none;">Client Testimonials</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="ilexzv" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="ihqsfq" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="il4fg4" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 600px;"><div id="ibkrbr" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #242745; font-size: 20px; padding-left: 50px; padding-right: 50px; font-style: italic; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif !important;">"We had an exceptional experience working with Julie and Brian as our realtors. Their professionalism, dedication, and attention to detail truly set them apart. From the initial consultation to the closing, they guided us through every step of the process with expertise and care. Their market knowledge and negotiation skills ensured that we got the best deal possible. We highly recommend Julie and Brian to anyone looking for top-notch real estate agents. Thank you both for making my home selling experience smooth and successful!"<br style="box-sizing: border-box;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;">-Richard Gordon</div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellspacing="0" id="i3m5ti" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; width: none !important;" height="40"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;"><tr style="box-sizing: border-box;"><td align="center" id="iojx4u" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div id="ic9vdr" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: #ffffff; min-height: 20px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 20px; width: 600px; text-align: center; font-size: 0;"><img id="izwael" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/e4645f00-0991-4070-b8a9-70cd802edf16-a9f8f02351b4bf3efc7fe493ca310bc3.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; overflow: hidden; width: 50px; height: 50px; margin: 0 5px; color: #389eb0; padding: 0;" width="50" height="50"><img id="iuowmv" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/921bb05e-1c7c-474f-bbf4-98474264fd57-f7f5f80be37a586bd81400a8cb914e1f.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; overflow: hidden; width: 50px; height: 50px; margin: 0 5px; color: #389eb0; padding: 0;" width="50" height="50"><img id="ipywtf" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/e25f2c22-8de4-483d-a07b-fc7513c5e899-d9d224e0b485112c550532802116c4cc.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; overflow: hidden; width: 50px; height: 50px; margin: 0 5px; color: #389eb0; padding: 0;" width="50" height="50"><img id="ii9inv" src="https://dnhf8bus4lv8r.cloudfront.net/system/shared/design-images/51bba79f-c97f-4a42-9523-6c57a15e350b-d1d85b8993357c1f95d65bdc0abe7258.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; overflow: hidden; width: 50px; height: 50px; margin: 0 5px; color: #389eb0; 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font-weight: 700; color: #242745; font-family: undefined !important;">Manage Preferences</span></p><div id="ibkadx-2-3-2" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0; font-size: 12px; font-weight: 300; color: #ffffff; margin-top: 20px; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;"></div><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []" id="iqv7zg-3" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 300; font-size: 7.5px; text-align: center; color: #242745; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;">Higgins Group Private Brokerage is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties for Fairfield and New Haven Counties in Connecticut. Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;">Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. This is not intended to solicit a property already listed. Higgins Group is licensed in CT &amp; NY</p></td></tr></tbody></table></body></html>2024-03-13T13:11:26-07:002024-03-14T07:05:22-07:00Margaret McCannontag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:15199Tips for Staging Your Home to Sell<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_staging.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Good staging lets the buyers imagine themselves in the home, shows off its good features and hides its flaws, turns awkward spaces into usable spaces, creates a positive mood (stagers call it “emotional staging”) and makes the home look significantly better in photos.
While professional staging can significantly add to the appeal of a home and potentially net a higher sale price, in many cases staging with the seller's own items can be cost-effective and can still create a visually appealing and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some ideas for staging using existing items:
Furniture Arrangement
Optimize Space: Rearrange furniture to create an open and spacious feel. Consider the flow of traffic and make sure each room has a clear purpose.
Declutter and Depersonalize
Minimize Personal Items: Remove personal photographs, excessive knick-knacks, and any items that may distract potential buyers. The goal is to create a neutral and universally appealing space.
Neutral Colors: Consider repainting walls in neutral tones. Neutral colors create a clean canvas and help buyers envision their own style.
Deep Cleaning: Ensure the home is spotless. Pay attention to details like baseboards, carpets, and windows.
Rugs and Pillows
Area Rugs: Use rugs to define spaces and add warmth to rooms.
Throw Pillows and Blankets: Incorporate decorative pillows and throw blankets to add texture and color to sofas and beds.
Lighting
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Lamps: Place stylish lamps in living areas and bedrooms to create ambient lighting.
Natural Light: Emphasize natural light by opening curtains and blinds. Clean windows to ensure maximum light penetration.
Greenery and Flowers
Indoor Plants: Bring in potted plants or fresh flowers to add life and freshness to the space.
Centerpieces: Create attractive centerpieces for dining tables or coffee tables using natural elements.
Bookshelves and Shelving
Book Arrangement: Organize books and decor on bookshelves neatly. Consider incorporating decorative items and keeping some shelves partially empty for a clean look.
Open Shelving: If you have open shelving in the kitchen, arrange items in an organized and visually pleasing manner.
Bedroom Ambiance
Luxurious Bedding: Invest in quality, neutral-colored bedding to create a luxurious and inviting bedroom.
Matching Nightstands: If possible, use matching nightstands and lamps to create a cohesive look.
Kitchen Presentation
Counter Space: Clear off kitchen counters to showcase the available workspace. Leave out a few stylish and practical items, like a bowl of fresh fruit or an attractive coffee maker.
Functional Spaces
Home Office: If you have a home office, organize it to showcase functionality. Consider adding a small desk, chair, and some tasteful office supplies.
Bonus Spaces: If your home has additional spaces like a nook, reading corner, or alcove, stage them with appropriate furniture and decor.
Clean Smelling
Neutral Scents: Avoid strong odors. Opt for neutral scents like fresh flowers, baked goods, or a subtle candle. An inviting smell can create a positive first impression.
Cleanliness: Ensure there are no unpleasant smells from pets, cooking, or other sources. Ventilate the home before showings.
Remember to strike a balance between showcasing the home's features and allowing potential buyers to imagine their own belongings in the space. Consult with a trusted Realtor to optimize your home's potential through staging. A well-staged home, even with a seller's own items, can greatly enhance its appeal!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Screen_Shot_2024-02-28_at_2.58.34_PM.png" width="992" height="296" />2024-03-07T14:52:30-07:002024-03-07T15:00:31-07:00Lorelei Atwoodtag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:15140The Joy of Decluttering Your Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_declutter.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In our fast-paced world, our homes often become the silent witnesses to our busy lives, not only collecting memories but also tons of junk we no longer need or use. Decluttering your home can seem like a daunting task, but it is a deeply rewarding process that not only transforms your space but also your state of mind. Let’s explore the art of decluttering and how it can turn your home into an organized, and joyful living environment.
The Importance of Decluttering
Know your “why”. Are you living in a space that is creating ongoing stress or are you organizing for a party? Decluttering goes beyond mere cleaning. It's about reassessing what we own and choosing to keep only those things that serve a purpose or enhance our lives. This process can significantly reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Living in a clutter-free environment can help us feel more relaxed and in control, making our homes a personal sanctuary and someplace we are proud to share with others.
The First Steps
Decluttering your entire house can be overwhelming, but the key is to start small. Prioritize what space you will work in first? Choose one area or room to begin with, maybe a drawer, a closet, or a corner of the room that has been collecting items. By starting small, so you will have a sense of accomplishment. This will motivate you to tackle larger areas.
Find Your Method
There are several methods to decluttering. You may be familiar with the popular KonMari method, introduced by Marie Kondo. This method asks you to hold each item and ask yourself if it sparks joy. If it doesn’t, it’s time to let it go. Yep, bye bye! This simple question can help you make decisions more easily and ensure that you only keep things you truly love or use.
Another approach is the Four-Box Method, which involves setting up four boxes labeled: Trash, Give Away, Keep, and Relocate. Pretty easy! This method is straightforward and helps you categorize items quickly so they can be put away or discarded.
You can certainly create your own method but these are some great ways to get the process going.
Tackling Categories
An efficient strategy is to declutter by category. Start with clothes, then move on to books, papers, and other items. By focusing on one category at a time, you can avoid the common pitfall of moving clutter from one room to another. Unless an item needs to be returned to another room, you should avoid the bad habit of piling things in one room to clean another.
Sentimental items are a special category and may need to be handled by using company like <a href="https://www.artkiveapp.com/">https://www.artkiveapp.com/</a> to consolidate and make a memory book. Sentimental items can be emotional to part with. It is a process and thankfully many memory services exist to help us make the most of these items in our home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/declutter_blog1.jpg" width="579" height="386" />
Maintenance
Decluttering is not a one-time event, it’s a continuous process. Implementing systems and routines will help you maintain a clutter-free home. Regularly assess what you own, and be mindful of what you bring into your space. A good rule is the one-in, one-out rule, where for every new item that comes into your home, an old one has to go.
Your Newly Decluttered Home
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/declutter_blog2.jpg" width="506" height="338" />
The benefits of decluttering extend far beyond a tidy home. It can lead to a more sustainable lifestyle, as you become more intentional about what you purchase and keep. Decluttering is a journey that requires patience, effort, and sometimes, emotional resilience. The results are immensely rewarding.
A decluttered home is not just about minimalism or aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that reflects your values, brings you joy, and supports your well-being. As you embark on this journey, remember that decluttering is not just about removing things from your home, it’s about making room for more of what truly matters.
2024-02-29T07:20:59-07:002024-02-29T12:54:56-07:00Linda Stonetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14937What is Hard Money Lending?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_hardmoney.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Investors often consider using “hard money” or funds from private sources to secure funding for investment opportunities they are considering. What exactly is “Hard Money” and when does it make sense to consider using a hard money loan for an investment opportunity.
Hard Money is the term used for loans funded by private parties that cannot be funded by conventional lending institutions. There are many types of hard money loans. Other common names for hard money loans are: private, asset-based, bridge, and interim loans.
While there are many different use cases, investors typically choose to use hard money because:
a.) They require a quick closing and their bank can’t make the deadline.
b.) They have an excellent investment opportunity but don’t have sufficient financial strength to get a bank loan.
c.) They need more leverage than a bank is willing to give.
d.) The property needs to be renovated or stabilized before a bank will agree to permanent financing at traditional rates.
Private lenders generally make lending decisions based heavily on the project’s Loan to Value (LTV) ratio. In addition to the LTV, the Loan to Cost (LTC) ratio is considered. These ratios measure the risk of the loan by comparing the loan amount to the cost of the project and the value of the asset at the time of the purchase. The After Repair Value (ARV) or value of the property after it is renovated/improved is also considered.
Private loans are considered for:
-Fix & Flip loans which provide financing for the purchase and rehab of non-owner occupied residential and multi-family investment properties.
-Alternative Fix & Flip loans are also considered to provide financing for the rehab of our other assets such as vintage automobiles, RVs, and boats
-Bridge Loan programs provide investors funding for the acquisition and refinance of residential, multi-family, mixed-use, and commercial investment properties. Bridge loans usually are used for approximately 12 month period while the investor prepares for refinancing.
-Refinance or Cash-Out programs allow investors to use the equity in a property they already own for refinance, rehab, or improving their property. Or just to take cash out.
-New Construction loans can get you the financing you need to cover the cost of the building process.
Private Loan Rates are generally fixed, but can vary slightly depending on the borrower and the specific project. The Interest rates for private loans are higher than for traditional loans, however the loan term is much shorter. It is always wise to consider the actual dollars that will be paid during the term of the loan, rather than the APR.
Private loans generally include a charge for originating the loan referred to as “points”. Points are calculated as a percentage of the loan amount and can range between 2-5 percent of the total loan amount. The actual points charged on your loan will depend on the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of your deal, the interest rate charged, and the risk associated with the loan. Other fees can be included for processing and underwriting as well such as a fee to process the loan application, acquiring documentation in order to underwrite the loan and property appraisal by fees.
PRIVATE LENDING TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW
INTEREST RATE
The periodic charge (typically paid monthly in arrears), based on a percentage of the amount of money borrowed, for use of money lent to a borrower by a lender during the term of the loan.
POINTS
Fees paid to a lender to make a mortgage loan. Each point is equal to one (1%) of the principal amount of a loan.
HARD MONEY
A common expression for money lent by private lenders, secured by an asset (most often real estate) at rates which are typically higher than rates charged by banks due to the greater risks associated with such loans.
BRIDGE LOAN
A short-term loan which is intended to provide financing to cover (or bridge) a period of time to allow a borrower to purchase and/or renovate and repair and/or stabilize a property prior to reselling/refinancing/renting or otherwise utilizing the property for the borrower’s intended purpose.
LTV
The Loan To Value ratio is the percentage amount of a loan as compared to the fair market value of a property which is being pledged as collateral for a loan. For example, if a borrower is purchasing a home worth $100,000 and the lender is willing to loan a maximum of 70% towards the appraised value of the home, this would translate to a $70,000 loan and a LTV of 70% ($100,000 X 70% = $70,000 --- $70,000/$100,000 = 70% LTV).
ARV
After Repair Value is the value of a property after renovations, repairs and/or retrofitting has been performed. ARV is an important factor which lenders take into consideration when making a loan in fix and flip and construction loan situations.
LTC
The Loan To Cost Ratio, is the percentage amount of a loan as compared to the actual purchase price paid by a borrower to acquire a property. For example, if a borrower is purchasing a property worth $100,000 for a discounted purchase price of $90,000, and the lender is willing to loan a maximum of 70% of the LTC towards the purchase price (cost) the loan would be $63,000 based on LTC instead of $70,000 based on LTV. Some private lenders will lend money based on a maximum LTC rather than based on a maximum LTV.
CASH OUT
A type of loan in which a property owner borrows money secured by a mortgage on the equity in the property to utilize in connection with a purpose not directly related to the property being mortgaged.
PER DIEM INTEREST
The daily interest payable by a borrower on a loan. Assuming a loan closes or is paid off on any day other than the first day of a calendar month, this amount is charged by a lender to a borrower in the month in which a closing on a loan occurs.
PRE-PAYMENT FEE
A fee paid to a lender for paying a loan prior to the scheduled maturity date.
CAP RATE
“Cap Rate” or “Capitalization Rate” means the ratio of income to value. In other words, cap rate is the expected return on investment to the purchaser of an income producing property based on the amount of money paid to acquire a property as compared to the annual net income realized by the investor/purchaser of the property after deducing all operating expenses not including mortgage interest.
TRIPLE NET
This term pertains to real estate leases. Triple Net means that the tenant ispaying rent plus all operating expenses associated with the property being leased (except for the landlord’s mortgage costs and sometimes capital repairs and improvements) A triple net lease typically includes all utilities, real estate taxes, municipal assessments, non-structural repairs and replacements, common area maintenance such as snow removal,landscaping costs and cleaning.
NET OPERATING INCOME (NOI)
This is the annual net income which a property owner realizes after adding all rents and other income from ownership of the property and subtracting all expenses of utilities, real estate taxes, maintenance and repair of the property (excluding mortgage amortization expenses).
If you would like to learn more about using private lending for real estate investment opportunities, the <a href="https://www.vanderblue.com/our-divisions/investblue/">InvestBlue Division</a> of The Vanderblue Team is here for you. We are happy to talk with you and connect you with our trusted professional private lending partners. For more information call <a href="https://lauriequatrella.vanderblue.com/about/">Laurie Quatrella</a> at 203-615-3301 or you can email Laurie at laurie@vanderblue.com.2024-02-21T13:39:05-07:002024-02-23T08:37:12-07:00Laurie Quatrellatag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14856Should A Real Estate Investor Get Their Real Estate License?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_16.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
As a real estate investor, the question of whether to also become a licensed real estate agent is a common one. In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes! The benefits of holding a real estate license far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Let's explore the advantages of being a licensed real estate agent as an investor.
Access to Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
While platforms like Zillow and Redfin have become prevalent, the MLS still provides an edge by offering enhanced visibility into potential investment opportunities.
Increased Networking Opportunities
Being a licensed agent opens doors to a vast network of industry professionals, leading to valuable partnerships, off-market deals, and access to exclusive listings.
Enhanced Market Knowledge
Obtaining a real estate license deepens understanding of local market dynamics, regulations, and legal considerations, which is invaluable for assessing opportunities and mitigating risks.
Potential Cost Savings
Representing oneself in transactions can potentially save on commission fees paid to buyer's agents, leading to cost savings over time.
Professional Credibility
Holding a real estate license signals commitment to ethical standards and legal compliance, fostering trust with sellers, buyers, and industry professionals, and facilitating smoother negotiations.
Multiple Streams of Income
Licensed investors can earn additional income through commissions on transactions facilitated for clients, and by representing themselves as buyers or sellers, potentially earning commissions in the process.
One drawback to consider is the requirement to disclose licensure status when negotiating for off-market properties. This may offset the financial advantage of purchasing properties off-market.
In summary, the benefits of holding a real estate license as an investor outweigh the drawbacks. While obtaining a license requires effort and ongoing education, it provides access to valuable resources, networks, and opportunities, elevating an investor's capabilities in the competitive real estate market.2024-02-15T07:22:26-07:002024-02-15T07:40:11-07:00Ken Betzatag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:148107 Tips Before a Major Renovation<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_15.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Home renovation is an adventure that can easily go off the rails. There are a mind-boggling number of wrong choices homeowners can make, from going over budget, or hiring a shady contractor, to just realizing that the paint color or quartz counters they picked are so wrong- after the work is done. So if you want to make sure your renovation turns out alright, it's important to be prepared. Here are 7 tips to consider before a major renovation that will help you streamline the whole process and get the job done faster!
Know Your End Goal
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/reno_1.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Before you decide how to extensively to renovate, you need to know what your end goal is your place. Are you renovating to extend the value of your property, or will you be staying put for years to come? Take into consideration the condition of your neighborhood before you begin. There is nothing worse than having a beautiful home that won't sell because it's overpriced for the neighborhood/area.
Besides that, be aware of which renovations are good in terms of investment, and which will be considered overdoing it for the area. Besides that, be aware of which renovations are good in terms of investment, and which will be considered overdoing it for the area. For example, the average price of a kitchen renovation is $22,905 or $150 per square foot. Most homeowners spend between $12,549 and $34,199 or $75-$250 per square foot. Total expense varies depending on the quality of materials, the size of the space, and whether or not you change the layout.
On the other side, the average bathroom remodels fall between $9,600 to $11,000 in costs. If you go for a low-end remodel you will have to pay around $2,500 while high-end remodels price around $23,000.
So which renovation should be the priority?
Kitchen remodels are more expensive and invasive than bathroom remodels, but they tend to provide more homeowner satisfaction and better resale value.
Having a specific plan for your future will help you decide how deep to go with your renovation project.
Write Everything Down
Mistakes are made and sometimes people don't really listen or maybe they hear something different than what you said, so writing down everything is important. That way you will avoid misunderstandings like wrong tub size, wrong depth of fridge, misplaced warranties, etc.
Decide to DIY or Hire a Pro
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/reno_2.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
There is another decision you should make before starting with the renovation and that is to decide which tasks you can do by yourself and for which to use a professional contractor. Our advice is to be realistic about what skills you have to complete it to your satisfaction, as well as how much free time you have. No one wants to have to use the downstairs bathroom for a month because the suitable one in the primary bedroom is not done yet.
Determine Your Budget
It is important to figure out the amount of money you have for your renovation to be able to allocate accordingly. In case you are looking for a major renovation on your property, you have the option of applying for a home equity line of credit or a home equity loan.
A home equity loan is a lump sum of money that a borrower applies for from a lender, while HELOC is a line of credit that revolves, and can be used like a credit card for large and unexpected expenses, home remodeling, debt consolodation, etc. The similarities between the two loans lie in the way they are secured, with the equity a borrower has built in their home representing the collateral. To choose the better option for you, you need to consider your financial situation, and why you might need a loan. The application process for both types of loans is similar. Lenders will look at your credit quality, down payment (in case you are buying) or equity (if you're a homeowner), and ability to repay.
You can also explore other options to fund your home improvement with a contractor financing, reverse mortgage, or something similar.
Plan a Reno-Free Zone
Before starting with all the mess, it's good to plan a renovation-free zone for your family to gather in semi-relaxation. Make sure you have all you need in one place, such as a kettle or a microwave, so you have one functional space to gather, eat, or just unwind at the end of the day. Reno-Free zone will give you the chance to clear your mind without being distracted by all the clutter around.
Don't Forget to Clean Up
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After a long day of working, it can be tempting to just turn off the light and leave the mess for tomorrow. Don't do this! It will probably cause delays, lost tools, and lost sanity along the way. Be sure to plan a little amount of time in your renovation plan to tidy up at the end of the day. Your future self will be grateful!
Time Your Renovation Right
Time is the most valuable resource in the world. And since renovation projects are notorious for running over schedule, you must be aware of issues like necessary materials getting back ordered or some of the subcontractors getting sick. It's wise to just expect these delays and plan the renovation with ample time. Also, note that summer is considered the best time to start a major renovation due to multiple factors - summer break from school, contractor availability, more sunny days and less rain, more time to settle in, and more.
The Bottom Line
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/reno_4.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
A major renovation of your home can be a long and tedious process with many pitfalls. We hope our 7 tips will make you feel more confident and prepared for it. Just don't forget that the right mindset is as important as planning everything before you start with the hard work of renovating your property.2024-02-08T07:46:45-07:002024-02-08T09:35:54-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14769Decor Design Trends<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_13.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In recent years, many of us have embraced a more personalized approach to home interiors. Decorating is no longer about following rules and style guides. Of course, that does not mean we should abandon popular trends. There will always be certain core styles to inspire our imagination and give us the basics to build around. We have gathered some of the most interesting decor design trends to help you create a modern, beautiful, and comfortable home.
Decor Design Trends
At One with Nature Indoors
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/plants.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Not surprisingly, the latest interior designs combine a lot of warm and natural elements with earthen luxury. Materials obtained from nature or those which mimic the look of it are used to create a natural and relaxing atmosphere in your home. To make your space look more unique and authentic, you can apply natural wood, along with different stone materials such as granite, pebbles, and marble to compliment your decor.
Green Accent
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/leaves.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Speaking of nature, green accents and accessories have continued to be on trend for another year. Decorating with textured plants and succulents is a great way to bring greenery to your place. And if you're not a natural green lover, pillow covers with banana leaf patterns are a great way to add some freshness to living room interiors. In addition, consider adding framed plants or botanical prints, which are also super trendy!
Black is Making a Comback!
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Black is now taking over the world of interior design. From black furniture, black walls, black prints, finishes, and fixtures, this color is pretty much all over the place. It might be surprising for you to learn the black wall is super popular nowadays- and you're probably wondering why. A black wall creates a powerful and elegant statement in home interior design, along with making your room appear smaller. But if you don't want to go all black, it is a great idea to pair it with light colors. The contrast can help you to enhance the overall appearance and size of the space.
Curves and Smooth Edges
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Boxy edges and clean lines are replaced by curves and smooth edges among furniture designs. From puffy and soft chairs to curved coffee tables, these decor design elements are all about comfort and elegance. If you are tired of using rectangualr or square furniture with straight lines, move towards round shaped furniture and smooth fabrics. These new shapes often resemble furnishings from previous decades, so we might say that decor design trends from the 70's and the 80's are making a comeback.
Statement Ceilings and Floors
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Statement ceilings and floors are making an entrance throughout decor design trends. They can come in the form of geometric patterns or bold colors. If you don't want to add this eccentric interior design for your flooring, you can go for a more traditional approach with a patterned floor and ceiling. They are also a great way to make a statement without being too extravagant.
Vintage Lighting
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/lights.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Vintage lighting is another decor design that many will be shocked to see making its way back into trends. Unlike before, vintage lights are now less exposed lighting and more vintage sconces and pendants in copper and brass finishes. They are a great addition to your place if you prefer industrial style.2024-02-02T12:38:13-07:002024-02-02T13:06:01-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:146943 Must-Do’s When Selling Your House in 2024<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_12.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
This week's article comes from the experts at <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/22/3-must-dos-when-selling-your-house-in-2024/">Keeping Current Matters</a>, and speaks to some smart practices for home sellers in the coming spring market!
If one of the goals on your list is <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/17/2-reasons-why-todays-mortgage-rate-trend-is-good-for-sellers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">selling your house</a> and <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/16/why-you-may-want-to-seriously-consider-a-newly-built-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">making a move</a> this year, you’re likely juggling a mix of excitement about what’s ahead and feeling a little sentimental about your current home.
A great way to balance those emotions and make sure you’re confident in your decision is to keep these three best practices in mind when you’re <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/09/ways-your-home-equity-can-help-you-reach-your-goals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ready to sell</a>.
1. Price Your Home Right
The <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/19/expert-quotes-on-the-2024-housing-market-forecast/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">housing market</a> shifted in 2023 as <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/20/why-mortgage-rates-could-continue-to-decline/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mortgage rates</a> rose and <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/12/home-prices-forecast-to-climb-over-the-next-5-years-infographic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">home price appreciation</a> started to <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/10/20/home-price-growth-is-returning-to-normal-infographic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">normalize</a> once again. As a seller, you still need to recognize how important it is to price your house appropriately based on where the market is today.
2. Keep Your Emotions in Check
Today, homeowners are staying in their houses <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/27/retiring-soon-why-moving-might-be-the-perfect-next-step/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">longer</a> than they used to. According to the <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/highlights-from-the-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a> (NAR), since 1985, the average time a homeowner has owned their home has increased from 6 to 10 years... For some homeowners, that makes it even tougher to separate the emotional value of the house from fair market price. That’s why you need a real estate professional to help you with the negotiations and the best pricing strategy along the way. Trust the professionals who have your best interests in mind.
3. Stage Your Home Properly
While you may love your decor and how you’ve customized your house over the years, not all buyers will feel the same way about your vibe. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you focus on your home’s first impression, so it appeals to as many buyers as possible.
<a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2024/01/22/3-must-dos-when-selling-your-house-in-2024/">Read the full article at KeepingCurrentMatters.com</a>2024-01-26T10:39:29-07:002024-01-26T12:10:03-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14627A Lighter Side to Real Estate: The Effect Lighting Has on Purchasing a HomeAs a real estate professional, I want to bring attention to how lighting impacts the home-buying<br />process and explore why shopping for real estate in good lighting is not just a matter of<br />preference but strategy.
First impressions matter, and the moment you step into a property, the lighting sets the tone.<br />Bright natural light that streams through windows creates inviting atmospheres, making spaces feel open, airy, and welcoming. Conversely, dim, or inadequate lighting can obscure the true character of a space, making it difficult to envision life within those walls.
Imagine touring a home with inadequate lighting in the kitchen or workspace. It becomes<br />challenging to assess the functionality of these crucial areas. Good lighting in functional spaces not only makes them more enjoyable but also ensures that you can accurately evaluate the layout and design, envisioning how the home will meet your practical needs.
<img alt="A comparison of a kitchen and dining room
Description automatically generated" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/p5L09gjbQQOwdx2OcdCpAJ1Rlf0ewzf_hsdDtgIhX6vD_1SSclRkBeffWvKrD-ZaVHOO6Q-HnOysr4tde8LbLnJg3ijJhBHhRdHdy7shnPFux9_cgL6EEElvZwV2SgC_TpxdPYMYKL4ceeNshKHTlA" width="604" height="262" />
Natural light also brings with it an overall sense of well-being and can reduce the reliance on<br />artificial lighting during the day, resulting in lower energy consumption. Additionally, exposure to natural light has been linked to improved mood and productivity. When shopping for real estate, consider the orientation of the property and how it captures sunlight throughout the day. A home bathed in natural light not only saves on energy costs but also fosters a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
I encourage you to prioritize good lighting during your property search. Schedule viewings<br />during daylight hours whenever possible and take note of how each property resonates with you in different lighting conditions. Remember, well-lit home is not just visually appealing; it can<br />shape your entire perception of a property, revealing its true potential and helping you make a<br />decision that aligns with your aspirations. Illuminate your real estate journey with the power of<br />good lighting and discover homes that truly brighten your future.2024-01-18T07:12:31-07:002024-01-18T07:20:01-07:00Jon Matsontag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14522Why Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Decline<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_8.jpg" width="436" height="262" />
When you read about the <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/04/experts-project-home-prices-will-rise-over-the-next-5-years/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">housing market</a>, you’ll probably come across some information about inflation or recent decisions made by the Federal Reserve (the Fed). But how do those two things <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/11/29/why-the-economy-wont-tank-the-housing-market/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">impact you</a> and your homebuying plans? Here’s what you need to know.
The Federal Funds Rate Hikes Have Stalled
One of the Fed’s primary goals is to lower inflation. In order to do that, they started raising the Federal Funds Rate to slow down the economy. Even though this doesn’t directly dictate what happens with <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/11/28/are-the-top-3-housing-market-questions-on-your-mind/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mortgage rates</a>, it does have an impact.
Recently inflation has started to cool, a signal those increases worked and are bringing inflation back down. As a result, <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the Fed’s hikes</a> have gotten smaller and less frequent. In fact, there haven’t been any increases since July.
Mortgage Rates Are Coming Down
Mortgage rates are influenced by a wide variety of factors, and inflation and the Fed’s actions (or as has been the case recently, inaction) play a big role. Now that the Fed has paused the increases, it looks more likely <a href="https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/node/28106/pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mortgage rates</a> will continue their downward trend.
Although mortgage rates may remain volatile, their recent trend combined with <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/11/17/2024-housing-market-forecast-infographic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">expert forecasts</a> indicate they could continue to go down in 2024. That would improve affordability for buyers and make it easier for <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/05/when-you-sell-your-house-where-do-you-plan-to-go/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sellers to move</a> since they won’t feel as locked-in to their current, low mortgage rate.
Bottom Line
The Fed’s decisions have an indirect impact on mortgage rates. By not raising the Federal Funds Rate, mortgage rates are likely to continue declining. Rely on a trustworthy <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/07/why-you-need-to-use-a-real-estate-agent-when-you-buy-a-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">real estate expert</a> to give you expert advice about changes in the housing market and how they affect you.
Read the Full Article at <a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/12/20/why-mortgage-rates-could-continue-to-decline/" target="_parent">KeepingCurrentMatters.com</a>2024-01-04T09:23:27-07:002024-01-04T09:34:10-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14444Setting a Festive Holiday Table<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_7.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
No matter which holiday you celebrate in the month of December, you are likely to gather with family and friends in your home. Setting a festive table can create a warm and inviting atmosphere where your guests can enjoy good company and delicious food. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and memorable holiday table setting:
Choose a theme
Decide on a theme for your table setting. It could be traditional, rustic, modern, or anything that suits the occasion. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a centerpiece this time of year…look to nature for inspiration. Pine boughs, holly, berries and evergreens make a great base to begin your table decoration.
Select a Color Scheme
Choose a color palette that complements the holiday season. Common choices include red, green, gold, and silver, but feel free to get creative with your color combinations and have some fun!
Linens and Tablecloth
Start with a clean and well-pressed tablecloth in a color that matches your theme. Add coordinating napkins and table runners for an extra layer of visual interest.
Elegant Dinnerware and Glassware
Use your best dinnerware and glassware to create an upscale look. If you have special holiday-themed dishes, now is the time to bring them out.
Layered Place Settings
Layering adds depth and dimension to your table. Place chargers or placemats underneath each dinner plate. Add salad plates, soup bowls, and dessert plates if necessary.
Elegant Dinnerware and Glassware
Use your best dinnerware and glassware to create an upscale look. If you have special holiday-themed dishes, now is the time to bring them out.
Festive Centerpiece
Create a stunning centerpiece that serves as a focal point for the table. This could be a floral arrangement, a candle centerpiece, or a combination of both.
Candles and Lighting
Add candles or fairy lights to create a cozy and festive ambiance. Consider using candle holders, lanterns, or candelabras for an elegant touch.
Personalized Place Cards
Use place cards to assign seats and add a personal touch. You can get creative with these, using holiday-themed designs or incorporating small ornaments.
Holiday Music and Scents
Set the mood with holiday music in the background. Consider using scented candles or diffusers with seasonal fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or gingerbread.
Attention to Detail
Pay attention to the small details, like folded napkins, ribbon ties, or small ornaments scattered on the table. These finishing touches can make a big difference.
Guest Favors
Consider placing small favors at each guest's setting. These could be holiday-themed treats, ornaments, or small gift bags.
The more you can do ahead of time, the more you will enjoy your guests! Remember to have fun! Happy Holidays!2023-12-21T09:49:54-07:002023-12-21T10:50:08-07:00Ellen McNeestag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14406Thoughts on Design: How to Turn a House into a Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
For this post we went to our design partner Wowhaus who gives us cheeky styling tips on how to turn a house into a home. A must read you won't find anywhere else.
Take an antique family frame and use it as a backdrop for a piece of art you love. But don’t frame it... just set the art in it... even let the hanging wire show! Do go bold in your powder room... yes, it’s small and fun so take a risk! Turn those carpets backside up... their texture is subtle and heavenly, and lived in. Out with the new in with your loves and treasures. Remember when DK first came out? Well, anyone with style would never wear all Donna Karan! Why live in an RH house?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Screen_Shot_2024-01-09_at_10.26.04_AM.png" width="276" height="274" /> <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/0038_copy_1_copy.jpg" width="411" height="274" />
Do a mod kitchen with a flying saucer cooktop in platinum with great Renzo Piano bones! And pair it with those wonderful vintage rinds you always loved and could never throw out even though everyone always asked you why on earth are you keeping those? The next tablescape you have to do... use your fabulous remnant guest bath wallpaper, lay it over a white cloth and with orange and magenta dayglo masking tape you’ve a one-of-a-kind tableau that would make Letitia Baldridge proud. If you happen to have a set of original Wyeth lithographs grab your pair of black French Aigle riding boots and delight in the dialogue between them. Enfin, if you’ve a bench, a cement floor and a specimen rock, by all means, show it off
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Screen_Shot_2024-01-09_at_10.27.32_AM.png" width="375" height="217" /> <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Screen_Shot_2024-01-09_at_10.28.12_AM.png" width="148" height="217" /> <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Screen_Shot_2024-01-09_at_10.32.40_AM.png" width="150" height="219" />
by Holly Jaffe of the design atelier <a href="https://www.wowhaus.com/about/">WOWHAUS</a>2023-12-15T10:05:38-07:002024-02-16T10:21:02-07:00David Johnsontag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:143395 Clues That Could Mean You're Ready to Move<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_moving.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Moving isn't easy, which is why it takes careful thought and consideration before diving in and putting your current house on the real estate market. Knowing whether or not you're ready depends on lots of personal factors. However, there are some common signs to pay attention to that will let you know you can pull the trigger with little hesitation.
5 Signs You Might Be Ready to Move
Are you ready to move house? Identifying with any of these signs may give you the answer.
1. You're Feeling Cramped
Are you running out of extra space? Do you have to think carefully about every purchase because there just isn't a lot of room to work with? Or is your family growing? If you're feeling like your home is a box that's closing in on you day by day, you may be ready for an upgrade. Moving house could give you the extra space, storage, or bedrooms you're craving to make life more comfortable.
2. You Regularly Check Online Listings "Just to See What's Out There"
If you check out that real estate app multiple times a day or quickly browse through nearby listings regularly, you may be avoiding the reality. What are you looking for that your current home doesn't have? If you're constantly seeing if anything in your price range is for sale, and you dream about a different home setup regularly, it may be time to get going already!
3. You Complain About the Climate/Neighborhood/Commute/Other Factor Daily
Do you find something about your current living situation to complain about daily? Then that's a big red flag that you want something else. If you have the means and moving could make your life infinitely better, it's time to address that dissatisfaction and get ready for a change of scenery.
4. You're Overwhelmed with the Upkeep
Maybe you're an empty-nester, or perhaps you're just getting to a point where simplifying would fit better with your lifestyle. Whatever your situation, if your house is becoming too much to care for, it may be time to downsize.
5. Your Commute is (Figuratively) Killing You
If you have to wake up at five a.m. to be ready at six for your hour-long commute, stop and think for a minute: What could you do with those extra two hours in your day you spend traveling to and from work? Or, if you have to fight through traffic during your commute every morning and it's raising your blood pressure, maybe your health demands you live closer. If your commute is dragging you down, it might be time to relocate closer to your job.
You May Be Ready to Move, But Just Haven't Realized It
Moving is a huge deal, so it's not a decision you should take lightly. However, if you find yourself identifying with any of the above signs, it may be time to start planning for your next big life change.2023-12-07T09:43:48-07:002023-12-07T14:25:51-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14296Crafting The Perfect New England Holiday Wreath: A Festive DYI Guide<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_2.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Step into the enchanting world of New England and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the holiday season. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of creating the perfect New England holiday wreath. With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and traditional festive spirit, New England offers the perfect inspiration for crafting a wreath that captures the essence of this magical region.
Materials:
To get started, gather the following materials:<br />- Wire wreath frame<br />- Fresh evergreen branches (such as pine, spruce, or fir)<br />- Pine Cones<br />- Holly berries or cranberries<br />- Ribbon in traditional New England colors (deep red, forest green, gold, or silver)<br />- Floral wire<br />- Scissors<br />- Optional: Dried flowers, miniature replicas of New England landmarks, or small ornaments for personalization.
<br />Step 1: Gathering Evergreen Branches
Explore the beauty of New England as you embark on a quest to find fresh evergreen branches. Visit local tree farms, forests, or even nearby parks to collect branches that are native to the region. Choose branches that are lush, fragrant, and will provide a vibrant green backdrop for your wreath.
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Step 2: Create the Base
<br />Take your wire wreath frame and securely attach the evergreen branches using floral wire. Start from the outer edge and work your way in, layering the branches to create a full and lush base. Ensure that the branches are tightly secured to the frame.
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Step 3: Adding Natural Elements
<br />Enhance the New England charm of your wreath by incorporating natural elements such as pinecones, holly berries, or cranberries. Attach these elements strategically throughout the wreath, creating a visually pleasing arrangement. Consider attaching them in clusters or along the bottom of the wreath for a balanced look.
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Step 4: Embracing Traditional Colors
<br />Infuse your wreath with the classic colors of New England. Incorporate ribbons or bows in deep red, forest green, or metallic hues of gold and silver. Adorn your wreath with these traditional colors, creating a festive and harmonious display.
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Step 5: Personalize and Make it Your Own
<br />Add a personalized touch to your New England Christmas wreath. Consider attaching dried flowers, miniature replicas of New England landmarks, or small ornaments that reflect your own style and memories. These unique additions will make your wreath truly one-of-a-kind.
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Step 6: Hanging and Displaying
<br />Once your masterpiece is complete, carefully hang your wreath on a sturdy hook or tie it with a ribbon. Choose a prominent location such as your front door, mantel, or wall to showcase the beauty of your creation. Take a step back and admire the festive ambiance your New England wreath brings to your home.
<br />Crafting the perfect New England holiday wreath allows you to embrace the rich history and traditional beauty of this charming region. As you create your wreath, let your imagination soar and infuse it with your own personal touches. The result will be a stunning masterpiece that captures the magic of New England and spreads holiday cheer throughout your home.
Happy Holidays!
2023-11-30T08:26:04-07:002023-11-30T08:54:53-07:00Colleen Murraytag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14182Navigating the Real Estate Market: The Do's and Don'ts of Selling Your Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_9.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Selling your home can be both an exciting and challenging venture. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned homeowner, understanding the do's and don'ts of the real estate market is crucial for a successful and stress-free experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of selling your home:
The Do's:
1. Research the Market:
Before putting your home on the market, research current real estate trends in your area. Understand the local property values, demand, and the average time homes spend on the market. This knowledge will empower you to set a competitive and realistic asking price.
2. Curb Appeal Matters:
First impressions are everything. Invest time and effort into enhancing your home's curb appeal. Trim the lawn, plant flowers, and ensure the exterior is well-maintained. A visually appealing home creates a positive initial impression for potential buyers.
3. Declutter and Depersonalize:
Buyers want to envision themselves in your home. Decluttering and depersonalizing your space by removing personal items and excess furniture allows them to see the potential of each room. A clean and neutral environment is more likely to attract a broader range of buyers.
4. Stage Your Home:
Professional staging can significantly impact the perceived value of your home. Consider hiring a professional stager to showcase your home's best features and create an inviting atmosphere. If professional staging isn't in the budget, focus on arranging furniture to highlight the flow of each room.
5. Professional Photography:
In the digital age, high-quality photos are essential. Invest in professional photography to showcase your home in its best light. Many potential buyers begin their search online, and eye-catching photos can make your property stand out.
6. Set a Realistic Timeline:
Understand that selling a home takes time. Set a realistic timeline and be patient. Rushed decisions often lead to compromises on price or terms. Allow sufficient time for marketing, showings, and negotiations.
7. Be Flexible with Showings:
Make your home as accessible as possible for potential buyers. Be flexible with showing times, even if it means inconveniencing yourself. The more available your home is for viewings, the more opportunities you'll have to find the right buyer.
8. Effective Marketing:
Leverage multiple marketing channels to promote your home. Utilize online listings, social media, and traditional marketing methods to reach a broad audience. Highlight unique features and key selling points in your marketing materials.
The Don'ts:
1. Overpricing:
One of the most common mistakes is overpricing your home. Be realistic about your property's value and consider the advice of a real estate professional. An inflated asking price can deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process.
2. Ignoring Repairs:
Address any necessary repairs before listing your home. Neglecting maintenance issues can lead to lower offers and a longer time on the market. A well-maintained home signals to buyers that it has been cared for.
3. Being Emotionally Attached:
It's natural to have emotional attachments to your home, but don't let sentimentality cloud your judgment. Approach the sale with a business mindset, making decisions based on market realities rather than personal feelings.
4. Neglecting Legalities:
Familiarize yourself with local real estate laws and regulations. Ignorance of legal requirements can lead to complications during the closing process. Consult with a real estate professional to ensure all necessary paperwork is in order.
5. Incomplete Disclosures:
Transparency is key. Provide potential buyers with all necessary disclosures regarding the condition of your home. Failing to disclose issues can lead to legal complications down the line.
6. Ignoring Feedback:
Pay attention to feedback from potential buyers and their agents. If you receive consistent feedback about a particular aspect of your home, consider addressing it. Constructive criticism can help you make necessary improvements.
7. Skipping Professional Guidance:
Selling a home involves a complex process, and professional guidance is invaluable. Hire a qualified real estate agent to assist you. Their expertise can help you navigate negotiations, paperwork, and market dynamics.
8. Narrow Marketing Strategies:
Don't limit your marketing efforts. Explore various channels to reach a wide audience. Online platforms, open houses, and networking can all contribute to a successful sale.
In conclusion, selling your home requires a strategic and informed approach. By following these do's and don'ts, you'll increase your chances of a smooth and successful home-selling experience. Remember to stay flexible, be patient, and seek professional guidance to ensure a positive outcome in the competitive real estate market.2023-11-17T07:02:12-07:002023-11-17T07:17:20-07:00Chrissie Rodrigueztag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14116Finding Common Ground<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_divorce4.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
It’s a simple concept, yet during a divorce, with emotions running high, it can seem impossible. Having a third-party, intermediary, may be just what you need. Removing the emotions from any real estate transaction can be a challenge, doing so while dividing up everything else may be too much of a challenge. However, it is critical to find a simple point both parties can agree with.<br /> <br /> Simply start with what’s going on with the house.
Will you sell it? Will one of the parties keep it and buy the other out? Will one live there for a designated period, then sell? In many divorce situations, the marital assets, including the home are sold and the proceeds are split. If that’s the case, then realizing the largest sale price possible IS your (first) common ground. <br /> <br /> Once you find the first piece of common ground, it is easier to proceed towards achieving your mutual goal. The next step in ensuring your success plan is sticking with it. Simple, yet effective, steps include; keeping articles of clothing and personal items from both parties in the home, keeping the property in good, clean condition and presenting a unified front will help with the sale.
The single most important step you must take when selling a home is aligning yourself with a Realtor, that understands the situation empathetically, preferably one who has experience with home sales during a divorce situation. An agent that will respect your privacy, and who will perform, communicate and work to achieve your mutual goal and help you maintain, throughout the transaction, your common ground.2023-11-09T08:41:11-07:002023-11-09T08:45:31-07:00Chris Sinatratag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14115What Happens If You Cannot Decide On A Realtor During Your Divorce Process?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_divorce3.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
When a divorcing couple cannot agree on a realtor it can complicate the process of selling a jointly owned property. Here are a few options to help both parties agree on the right Realtor.
Mediation and Negotiation
Ideally, the divorcing couple should attempt to reach an agreement through mediation or negotiation. This might involve discussions about the selection of a realtor, the terms of the sale, and the division of proceeds.
Court Intervention
If negotiations fail, the court might step in to resolve the issue. The court could order the appointment of a neutral third party, such as an attorney or a realtor based on their expertise.
Appointing Two Separate Realtors
In some cases, the court might allow each spouse to choose their own realtor. However, this approach can be more costly and might lead to potential conflicts between the Realtors representing each spouse.
Agreeing to Common Criteria
Another approach is for both parties to agree on a set of criteria that the realtor must meet. For example, they could agree on certain qualifications, experience, or reputation that the realtor should possess. Then, they can research and select a realtor who meets these criteria.
Selling Through an Attorney
In some situations, the divorcing/separating couple might decide to sell the property through their respective attorneys. This approach can avoid direct interaction between the spouses but might also result in slower progress and higher costs.
One Party Buys Out the Other
If one spouse is interested in keeping the property and buying out the other spouse’s share, the issue of selecting a new realtor might become less relevant. However, this would require financial agreements and valuations of the property to determine the fair buyout process.
Court-Ordered Sale
In extreme cases where the couple cannot reach an agreement and the court deems it necessary, the court might order the sale of the property, regardless of the realtor dispute. This approach is usually a last resort.
It’s important to note that divorce/separation laws and procedures can vary depending on the jurisdiction, so the specific outcome can differ based on your location. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to consult with legal professionals who are familiar with divorce/separation and real estate laws in your area. This can help you understand your obligations and options for choosing a Realtor.2023-11-09T08:22:23-07:002023-11-09T08:40:47-07:00Brandy Halltag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14114Using a Realtor CMA v. Appraisal To Determine The Value Of Your Home During Divorce<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_divorce2.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
As a Realtor that specializes in Divorce, the question often comes up, "Can I use a Realtor CMA for Home Value in a divorce or do I need a licensed Appraiser? While I am not able to provide legal advice, I can offer some general information that might help you make a decision. The use of a Realtor Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) versus a licensed appraiser for determining property value in a divorce situation can depend on several factors:<br /> <br /> In a divorce case, determining the value of a home is an important consideration, especially if the property is to be divided between the spouses or if one spouse is buying out the other's share. Both a Realtor's Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and a Licensed Appraiser's report can be useful in this context, but they serve different purposes and have varying levels of credibility.
<br /> Realtor CMA
A CMA is a report prepared by a real estate agent that provides an estimated value of a property based on recent sales of similar properties in the area, also known as comparables. CMAs can be a helpful starting point to get a general idea of a property's market value. However, they are not as formal or comprehensive as a professional appraisal, and their accuracy may vary depending on the expertise of the realtor and the quality of the data used.
<br /> Licensed Appraiser
An appraisal is a more formal and in-depth evaluation of a property's value conducted by a licensed appraiser. Appraisers are trained to follow strict guidelines and standards to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of their valuations. Appraisals take into account factors such as the property's condition, unique features, and market trends, and they often provide a more reliable estimate of the property's value.<br /> <br /> In a divorce case, the choice between a Realtor CMA and a licensed appraiser's report may depend on various factors, including:
<br /> Agreement Between Parties
If both spouses agree on the value of the property, either a CMA or an appraisal can suffice.
<br /> Complexity of the Property
If the property has unique features or characteristics that make it difficult to compare to other properties, an appraisal might provide a more accurate assessment.
<br /> Legal Requirements
Depending on the jurisdiction, the court may require a formal appraisal for property division in a divorce.
<br /> Credibility
An appraisal generally carries more weight in a legal setting due to its formal and standardized nature.
Disagreement Between Parties
If there is a significant disagreement between the spouses regarding the property's value, obtaining a professional appraisal might help resolve the issue.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on your specific circumstances, legal requirements in your jurisdiction, and your preferences. It's often a good idea to consult with legal professionals and potentially even obtain input from both a Realtor and a licensed appraiser to make an informed choice that serves the best interests of all parties involved.2023-11-09T08:09:48-07:002024-01-12T09:12:17-07:00Brian Appeltag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14112When and How to Use a Realtor During Divorce<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_divorce1.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Using the right Realtor who is experienced with divorce is imperative when selling a home during a divorce. Be sure your Real Estate agent has experiential knowledge before you choose who will represent you during this time. Here are some of the benefits of representation.
Expertise in Real Estate Transactions
Realtors are experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of real estate transactions. They can guide you through the selling process, help set an appropriate listing price, and provide valuable insights into the current market conditions.
Objective Decision-Making
Divorce can be an emotionally charged process. Having a realtor involved can provide an objective perspective on pricing, negotiation, and other aspects of the sale, helping to keep emotions in check.
Mediating Between Parties
If there are communication challenges between you and your spouse, a realtor can act as a neutral intermediary, facilitating discussions and negotiations related to the sale of the property.
Market Exposure
Realtors have access to multiple listing services (MLS) and marketing tools that can help your property gain maximum exposure to potential buyers. This can lead to a quicker sale and potentially a better price.
Professional Networking
Realtors have a network of contacts that can be useful during the selling process, including mortgage brokers, appraisers, inspectors, and legal professionals. This network can streamline the process and provide you with reliable recommendations.
Property Preparation and Staging
Realtors can offer advice on how to prepare your property for sale, including staging tips and suggestions for minor improvements that could enhance its appeal to buyers.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Selling property during a divorce can involve legal and financial complexities. A realtor can work in conjunction with your divorce attorney and financial advisor to ensure that all necessary documentation and considerations are addressed.
Reduced Stress
Divorce is already a challenging time, and dealing with the logistics of selling property can add to the stress. By hiring a realtor, you can offload some of the responsibilities and focus on other important aspects of your life.
Negotiation Expertise
Realtors are skilled negotiators who can advocate for your best interests during the sale. They can handle buyer inquiries, offers, and counteroffers, ensuring that you're well-represented.
Timely Sale
Selling a property can take time, and a realtor can help expedite the process by managing showings, open houses, and marketing efforts effectively.
Remember that while a realtor can provide valuable assistance, you should also work closely with your divorce attorney to ensure that the sale aligns with the legal requirements and agreements related to your divorce proceedings. It's advisable to choose a realtor who has experience with divorce scenarios and who can work collaboratively with your legal team.
2023-11-09T08:00:35-07:002023-11-09T08:07:49-07:00Lorelei Atwoodtag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14078How to Stay on Budget During a Move<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Moving into a new home can easily be a streesful procees that requires patience, time, and money. Even if some of the expenses are unavoidable, there are plenty of ways to keep them down by planning ahead, comparing prices, and rethinking your assumptions about the moving options and costs. Here are 5 valuable tips about how to stay on budget during a move, and how to keep money in your bank account before you reach your new doorstep.
Declutter and Donate
When you consider how to save money on your move, start by asking yourself what you can get rid of.
Take the time to go room by room and evaluate the items you want and need; versus those you can live without.
Selling or donating some of your belongings can eliminate extra weight, which is a metric used by some of the movers to calculate your estimated moving costs. By selling or donating, you can earn some extra cash or tax deductions which will help you to stay on budget during the move.
Moreover, if you're bringing bulky furniture to your new home, check the exact measurements. Don't go to the trouble and additional costs of moving that massive bookcase if it's not going to fit in your new place.
Use Cheap Packing Materials
Instead of buying new boxes, you can ask for old ones at your work. Some companies have special policies about used packing materials or boxes, so be sure to ask your manager or supervisor before you start grabbing materials.
You can also ask friends and neighbors if they have any unused bozes that you can have while moving.
Another great idea is to visit the closest recycling center to see what boxes can be salvaged. Don't forget grocery stores, liquor stores, and other retailers where you may find extra boxes that are free, after restocking.
Similarly, rather than shelling out more money on packing materials like bubble wrap, use blankets and sheets to wrap your belongings to protect them from damage.
Newspapers are always a great packing material, just be careful of the ink which can transger to certain items and damage them.
Consider a DIY Move
While you will need help, a DIY approach is a great way to cut down some of your expenses. However, it isn't exactly free. You'll still need to pay for a rental truck or van and gas.
You should also consider whether you'll need any labor help for the loading and unloading of all your belongings. If possible, you may want to gather your friends or family members to help you with the loading and unloading of the truck.
Since your close friends won't be expecting money, consider offering them something like beer and pizza after a move as an appreciation for their hard work.
If you have any medical restrictions or health problems that can be exacerbated during the move, seriously consider hiring professionals. In the end, health is more important than money, and you should take care of yourself.
Don't Move During Peak Season
While this may not be under your control, try to avoid moving during the peak season. Most Americans plan their moves between May and September, so do your best to avoid these months. This is also the most expensive time of year to move because moving and packing services are in higher demand.
Instead, try to move during October through March. Autumn, winter, or early spring months would be best.
For exact time, we recommend you to choose evening moves, which are cost effective when moving on a tight budget.
This extra effort put into the minor details of determining the date and time of your move can make a huge difference one the big day comes. Choose your move date wisely, and you'll save time, stress, and of course, money!
Track Your Expenses
The best way to stay on budget during a move is to keep track of all your expenses during the proccess.
Moving can add up quickly. To avoid dipping into your savings, it's best to save every receipt and closely record your expenses. Depending on your job, you may also be in a situation where you can write off your move or your future employer might be able to pay for some of it.
Keeping careful records will ensure that you have everything you need to be reimbursed.2023-11-03T06:08:37-07:002023-11-03T07:15:17-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:14029Halloween Safety: Trick-or-Treat Tips<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_x.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for parents. Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year-especially for kids! But in the excitement, it’s easy to lose sight of practical safety measures every parent/ guardian should take.
Watch where you walk
Make sure to stay on sidewalks and in low-traffic areas. If your neighborhood doesn't offer this type of situation, consider tock-or-treating in a neighborhood near by that does.
Don’t let them go it alone
It’s best to accompany children under 12 while trick-or-treating, even if it means you have to stay on the curb and give the "older" ones some space.
Practice proper costume safety
Avoid anything completely black or a very dark color or hooded and/ or consider putting reflective or glow-in-the-dark markings on thier bags and the costumes themselves. You can also incorporate glow sticks into the costume, or hold them for extra visibility.
Dress comfortably
Comfortable shoes and trip-proof costumes are a must. And dress appropriate for the weather. A luau or surfer costume probably isn't best in near-freezing temps.
Avoid harmful paints and materials
Face paint is a better option than a mask, which can impede your child’s vision, but if the paint is loaded with harmful chemicals, it’s best to buy a product specifically designed for children. And every costume must be fire retardant, safety first!
Drive carefully
Peak trick-or-treating hours are from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. which mean twilight to total darkness. Drive slowly through residential areas and be extremely cautious as excited children can dart out between cars, through bushes, around bends in the road or just about anywhere.
Candy check
This tip is a no-brainer, but be sure to check your child’s candy before he or she eats it and discard anything without a wrapper or that may have been tampered with. This includes the never-popular "no eating while treating" rule.
Stranger danger rules still apply
Even if you’re only trick-or-treating through your neighborhood, explain to your child that the same stranger rules still apply and to never step inside a person’s home, even if invited. This isn't Mayberry anymore!
Lastly, be polite
Halloween is a great opportunity for you to reinforce good manners in your children. Remind them to always say please and thank you to every candy-giving neighbor... even to old Mrs. Williams who gives out those old bags of pretzels!
Brought to you by your Ghoulishly Friendly Realtor, Chris Sinatra.
Don’t be scared to move. This Halloween, let me help you find your dream home. It'll be my treat!2023-10-27T12:59:42-07:002023-10-27T13:03:58-07:00Chris Sinatratag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13943Decorating your home for Halloween while it's listed for sale<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_halloween.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Decorating your home for Halloween while it's listed for sale can be a fun way to embrace the holiday spirit while maintaining the appeal of your property for potential buyers. Here are some tips on how to strike a balance between Halloween decorations and showcasing your home's best features:
1. Keep It Tasteful and Subtle
Choose Halloween decorations that are tasteful and not overly distracting. Avoid excessive or gory decorations, and opt for items that blend well with your home's existing decor.
2. Curb Appeal
Enhance your home's curb appeal with tasteful, seasonal decorations. Consider adding a fall-themed wreath to your front door, a few pumpkins, or a potted mum on the porch.
3. Neutral Color Palette
Stick to a neutral color palette with touches of Halloween. Black, white, gold, or metallic accents can work well. This helps maintain a cohesive look.
4. Lighting
Use soft, warm lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. String lights or lanterns can provide a festive touch without overwhelming the space.
5. Minimalist Approach
Less is more when your home is listed for sale. Keep decorations minimal to avoid clutter and allow potential buyers to focus on the property's features.
6. Non-Scary Themes
Choose Halloween themes that are family-friendly and non-scary. Avoid anything that might make potential buyers uncomfortable.
7. Table Settings
Set a Halloween-themed table in the dining room or kitchen with elegant place settings, seasonal tablecloths, and centerpieces. This can add a festive touch without being too distracting.
8. Open House Decor
If you're hosting open houses during the Halloween season, consider offering refreshments like apple cider, pumpkin spiced treats, or candy. This can create a welcoming atmosphere.
9. Scented Candles
Use scented candles with seasonal scents like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice to create an inviting aroma.
10. Virtual Tours
If you offer virtual tours, add Halloween-themed graphics or animations to your presentation. Keep them subtle and tasteful.
11. Photography
When taking photos for your listing, make sure Halloween decorations are not the focal point. Your images should highlight the property's best features, with the decorations complementing the overall ambiance.
12. Promote the Lifestyle
Use your Halloween decor to promote the lifestyle of living in the home, rather than overwhelming the space with decorations. For example, you could set up a cozy reading nook with a Halloween-themed book display.
13. Highlight Seasonal Features
Emphasize any features of the home that are particularly appealing in the fall season, such as a cozy fireplace or outdoor entertaining space.<br /><br />
Remember that the primary focus is on showcasing your home to potential buyers. The Halloween decorations should enhance the atmosphere and make the property feel inviting, not distract or detract from the main selling points of the house. A tasteful and thoughtfully integrated approach to decorating for Halloween can help create a welcoming and memorable experience for potential buyers without overwhelming them. Have fun and Happy Halloween!2023-10-20T06:00:45-07:002023-10-20T06:34:36-07:00Brian Appeltag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13892What is a 1031 Exchange and why you should use it!A 1031 Exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a provision in the US tax code that allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes when they sell one investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another “like-kind” property. Here are a couple examples of ways to use a 1031 Exchange. Tax referral, the most significant advantage of a 1031 exchange is the ability to for capital gains taxes on the sale of appreciated property. By reinvesting the proceeds into a like-kind property, you can postpone paying taxes until you sell the replacement property for cash. Wealth accumulation, investors can use 1031 Exchanges to continually roll over their investments into larger more profitable properties, effectively leveraging the growth of their Real Estate Portfolios without losing a significant portion of their gains to taxes. Diversification, a 1031 Exchange provides flexibility to diversify your real estate holdings. You can exchange one type of property (residential rental property) for another type (commercial property) or change properties located in different geographical areas. Estate Planning, investors can use 1031 Exchanges as part of their estate planning strategy to pass on assets to heirs with a stepped-up basis, potentially reducing the future tax burden on their heirs.
Here are seven important things to know when thinking about using a 1031 Exchange:<br />
1. Qualifying Properties
To qualify for a 1031 exchange, both the property you’re selling (the relinquished property) and the property you’re purchasing (the replacement property) must meet certain criteria. Both properties must be held for investment or for productive use in a trade or business. Personal residence Do Not Qualify.
-Both properties must be of like-kind, which means they must be of the same nature or character. Real property (land, buildings) generally qualifies as like-kind to other real property.
2. Identification of replacement
After selling your relinquished property, you have 45 days to identify potential replacement properties. You could identify up to three properties without regard to their fair market value, or you can identify more than three properties as long as their combined fair market value does not exceed 200% of the value of the relinquish property.
3. Purchase of replacement property
Once you’ve identified replacement properties, you have 180 days from the sale of the relinquish property (or until the due date of your tax return, including extensions, for the year and in which the relinquished property was sold, whichever comes first) to purchase one or more of that identified replacement properties.
4. Qualified Intermediary (QI)
To facilitate the 1031 exchange and ensure compliance with IRS rules, you typically work with a qualified intermediary. The QI holds the proceeds from the sale of the relinquished property and then uses those funds to acquire the replacement property. You must not have direct access to the sale proceeds to maintain the tax-deferred status of the exchange.
5. Completing the Exchange
The exchange is considered complete when you acquire the replacement property within the specified timeframes. The new property should have a purchase price equal to or greater than the relinquished property’s sale price. Any funds not used to purchase replacement property may be taxable.
6. Report the 1031 Exchange to the IRS
Report the 1031 exchange on your tax return by filing form 8824. This form provides details about the exchange and calculates any taxable gain that is deferred.
7. Defer Capital Gains Tax
By following these steps, and completing a valid 1031 exchange, you will defer paying capital gains tax on the sale of the relinquished property until you decide to sell the replacement property without using a 1031 exchange.
It’s important to know that 1031 Exchanges have strict rules and requirements, and failure to comply with these rules can result in the disqualification of exchange, and the immediate taxation of capital gains. Working with a qualified intermediary and consulting with a tax professional or an attorney experienced in 1031 Exchange is highly recommended. Using a 1031 Exchange can be a powerful tool for real estate investors to grow their portfolios and defer taxes on property appreciation to build their portfolio.2023-10-12T07:05:52-07:002023-10-16T07:44:13-07:00Brandy Halltag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13857Real Estate Agents Reveal The Top Residential Tech Trends of 2023<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_6.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In this age of smart technology, it is only fitting that the humble home gets an upgrade―at least that’s what homeowners are saying, according to the latest Luxury Agent Poll conducted by Forbes Global Properties.
When asked to rank the top tech-enabled features that luxury property sellers are incorporating to boost their property value, Forbes Global Properties’ domestic experts placed smart home systems at the top.
Agents went on to include electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, smart security and renewable energy sources as near essentials for the modern homebuyer.
Read on to find out how these trending technologies are helping owners build smarter, more efficient homes.
Read the full article at <a href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/real-estate-agents-reveal-the-top-residential-tech-trends-of-2023">forbesglobalproperties.com</a>
By Spencer Elliot2023-10-06T10:12:27-07:002023-10-12T07:14:06-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13820¿Es Posible Obtener un Préstamo Hipotecario Con un Número de Tax Id?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_5.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Es un protocolo estándar para los solicitantes de préstamos hipotecarios proporcionar su número de seguro social a sus prestamistas. Pero, ¿qué pasa si no tienes un número de seguro social pero tengo un tax id? ¿Debería eso ser un factor para detenerte de cumplir un sueño? No, no deberia.
Nosotros tenemos el dilema si comprar una casa o seguir alquilando teniendo un tax id. Tu quieres dejar de pagar la renta al propietario y adquirir una propiedad pero no tienes conocimiento de los pasos por seguir. Ocasionalmente aparece virtualmente imposible o simplemente dificultoso.
Entonces tu empiezas a preguntar a tu circulo social y unos te desaniman con las respuestas, ¿Porque compar? Si tu estas consiente que no te van aprobar. O tambien te puede decir “sabes que yo tambien lo e querido hacer pero no se como”. Entonces esa pregunta puede ir en diferente direcciones.
Yo te puedo decir que si es posible obtener un FHA prestamos con un numero de tax id. No solo adquirir propiedades tambien puedes adquirir inversiones. I tienes toda la razon no todos los lender o bancos ofrecen esa opcion pero yo te puedo conectar con prestamista hipotecario que si ofrecen. Ten tu numero de tax id, extracto de cuenta, prueba de ingreso, y tambien tu identificasion. Para prestamos con tax id el pago inicial puede variar a 10-20% todo depende del puntaje de credito.
Yo se que puede ser un proceso desalentador por esa razon estamos nosotros aqui para ayudarte. Asi que en vez de mal invertir tu dinero, invierte en tu futuro. Recuerda que ser dueno, lo unico que te limita es tu temor de averiguar.2023-09-29T06:23:20-07:002023-09-29T06:28:36-07:00Erika Crespotag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13801Is it possible to get a home loan with an ITIN number?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_5.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
It’s standard protocol for home loan applicants to provide their social security number to their<br />lenders. But what if you don't have a social security number but instead an ITIN? Should that<br />factor stop you from wanting to accomplish a dream? No, it shouldn’t!
<br />We have all debated whether to purchase a home or keep renting as someone with an ITIN<br />number. You want to stop renting from landlords and purchase a property, but you're not sure<br />how to get started. Occasionally, it appears virtually impossible or merely challenging.<br />So you begin by approaching your peers, who are also renters, and you are discouraged by<br />their response, "Why buy? You are aware that we will never be accepted.” You might also hear,<br />"You know what, I want to do it too, but I don't know how." So that question can actually go in a<br />variety of directions.
<br />I want to tell you that it is possible to obtain an FHA loan with an ITIN number. Not only to be able to buy a primary home but also investment properties. Yes, you are correct, not all lenders or banks provide this option, but I can connect you with lenders that do. Have your itin number,<br />bank statements, proof of income, and identification with you. For an itin loan amount usually<br />varies from about 10-20% down, it all depends on your credit score.
<br />I know it can be a daunting process to get through, but that is why my team and I are here to<br />help. So instead of giving your money away, invest in your future. Remember, if you want to own,<br />the only thing limiting you is your fear of finding out.2023-09-27T10:42:16-07:002023-09-27T12:24:42-07:00Erika Crespotag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13761Living Room Trends We Saw In Properties On The Market In 2022<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_4.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
While many people consider the kitchen the heart of the home, the living room is really where everyone wants to be. It’s a place to entertain friends and family, relax in front of the television, take a nap or get some work done.
There were a variety of interesting living room trends we saw in homes in the market in 2022. While these trends varied throughout modern, traditional and contemporary style homes, the one element that remained constant throughout is that fine details are everything. Whether you are looking for a new home or renovating your current one, here are six living room trends that you’ll want to watch for in 2023.
by Amanda Lauren
<a href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/living-room-trends-we-saw-in-properties-on-the-market-in-2022">Read More</a> at ForbesGlobalProperties.com2023-09-21T12:13:33-07:002023-09-21T12:16:37-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13679Purchasing a Fixer-Upper VS. a Move-In Ready Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_3.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
In our current lucrative market, it can be challenging deciding whether you should invest in a fixer-upper, or a move-in ready home; and which would better suit your needs. Fixer-uppers tend to be affordable upfront, but they may require additional funds for renovations and repairs. Move-in ready homes, on the other hand, generally tend to have a higher price-tag, but require less immediate maintenance, making them a convenient option for those who prefer move-in ready properties. Let's dive into the benefits of each!
Purchasing a fixer-upper home offers several benefits that can make it a worthwhile investment. Here are a few reasons why it can be a great choice for those who are willing to do the work:<br /><br />
1. Lower purchase price
Homes that need work are usually priced lower compared to move-in ready houses in the area. This can be advantageous if you're working with a limited budget, looking to save money on the purchase price, or are looking to save for future renovations.<br /><br />
2. Increased potential for equity
By purchasing a fixer-upper, you have the opportunity to increase the home's value through renovations and improvements, as well as make the home your own during the process! There is a greater chance to potentially gain a higher equity in the property over time, rather than purchasing a move-in ready home.<br /><br />
3. Customization and personalization
With a fixer-upper, you have the freedom to customize and personalize the home according to your preferences. This means you can create a space that truly reflects your style and needs, making it a special and unique place to live.<br /><br />
4. Potential for a higher return on investment
If you're willing to put in the effort and make smart renovations, a fixer-upper can offer a higher return on investment compared to a move-in ready home. Upgrading the property can significantly increase its value, providing you with potential financial gains.<br /><br />
5. Learning and personal growth
Taking on a fixer-upper project can be a great opportunity for personal growth and learning new skills. Whether you're tackling simple repairs or major renovations, you'll gain valuable knowledge and experience that can be useful in the future. It's fun to learn a thing or two as you build your dream home!
<br /><br />Remember, while being a great opportunity to enter our current real estate market, purchasing a fixer-upper home requires careful consideration and planning. It's essential to thoroughly assess the property's condition, estimate renovation costs, and have a clear vision for the improvements you want to make to fully understand whether the investment is right for you. For some, it may be a better option to purchase something more move-in ready, especially when young children are involved. Moreover, some just simply don't have the time to take on a large project, which can make purchasing a move-in ready home more enticing. Here are a few benefits of purchasing a move-in ready home, rather than a fixer-upper:
<br />
1. Convenience and immediate occupancy
One of the main advantages of a move-in ready home is that you can simply move in without the need for any major renovations or repairs. This convenience allows you to settle in quickly and start enjoying your new home and lifestyle right away!<br /><br />
2. Reduced stress and time commitment
Unlike a fixer-upper, a move-in ready home typically requires minimal work, saving you time, effort, and potential stress associated with extensive renovations. This is especially beneficial if you have a busy schedule or prefer to avoid the hassles of managing a renovation project. The ordering of materials can often delay a project if the shipment is late, and in-turn delay your renovation.<br /><br />
3. Predictable costs
With a move-in ready home, you have a clearer understanding of the total cost upfront, as there are fewer unknowns compared to a fixer-upper. This can help you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected expenses that often arise during extensive renovation projects.<br /><br />
4. Lower maintenance requirements
Move-in ready homes generally have newer systems, appliances, and fixtures, which means they require less immediate maintenance or replacement. This can save you money and effort in the short term, as well as provide peace of mind knowing that the home is in good condition from the time of purchase.<br /><br />
5. Ready-made aesthetics
Move-in ready homes often come with more updated interiors and thoughtful design choices. This can save you the time and effort of planning and executing a renovation to achieve your desired aesthetic. You can simply personalize the space with your furniture and decor to make it feel like home.
<br />It's important to note that move-in ready homes may come at a higher price compared to fixer-uppers, as you're paying for the convenience and work already done. However, the benefits of immediate occupancy and reduced renovation stress can outweigh the higher cost for many homebuyers. When purchasing a home, it's imperative to consider your personal preferences and lifestyle. Are you someone who enjoys taking on projects and has the time for renovations? If so, a fixer-upper could be a great opportunity to customize a home to your liking. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle or have a busy schedule, a new home might be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the choice between a new home and a fixer-upper depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and long-term goals.
2023-09-12T12:18:32-07:002023-09-13T07:22:50-07:00Valerie Alvareztag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13636Labor Day Weekend Ideas & Fun Facts: Celebrate The End Of Summer In CT!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic_1.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Labor Day was first recognized in 1885 as a formal way to give thanks to all the men and women who worked tirelessly to develop our economy & society. However, it wasn’t until June of 1894 when Legislation made the first Monday of September an official Holiday for all to celebrate. While we all continue to appreciate the hard work done before us and continuing today, America has also welcomed Labor Day as the unofficial end of Summer and below you’ll find a handy list of ways to celebrate with friends and family this weekend!
HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND:
Brew Maze at Lyman Orchards – Adult Only Event
<img alt="A maze in the shape of a map
Description automatically generated" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/G18paLGu3T8Tj-o4E56ozuQBSZzbpbLtsmVYuTC0koL5TXB0ZMEhyYDDCPX6CjwxZsoNjg2ADZdP2rjTb-M8KG8p2SqWkH0kowohGPUgVyM4QwISZI73_g3AqAQpBi83gSAQYwhrffGxljMBxB_6QA" width="240" height="355" />
September 1st (5-7pm)
+ The next 3 Fridays
Middlefield
Enjoy Craft Beer from Connecticut Breweries, play games, and attempt the 4 acres of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” corn maze!Children are welcome outside of this event. The corn maze is open until November 5th from 1pm-5:30pm Monday-Friday and 10am-5:30pm on Weekends and Holidays. Last maze entry is 5:30pm*. Head to Lyman Orchards website to learn more.
<br />Annual Goshen Fair (110th)
<img alt="A group of people walking in a park
Description automatically generated" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1vQ1221XZwj5HrlQOdsVQJa4uk53UC7o_9KeRNW4MTvOB6QMHTLSp-PYTheyF15ZF86IY8yzyeLf38IiWDO8R7Ul9iRDu1WvKpt2rp62yYh6sRD6a2TE2SeVPI4rmPlKiGjYXSU36ZPuFvOyzjA_uA" width="539.7126445770264" height="360.07693815231323" />
September 2 – 4
Goshen
This fabulous agricultural fair is only $10 to enter for adults and children under 12 are free. You won’t want to miss the fun with a plethora of entertainment, vendors, animals, woodcutting and free competitions you could partake in!
Silver Sands State Park
<img alt="A long shot of a beach
Description automatically generated" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2igTs5aoJ3nLVEUNFpC8GnaV75rgu5a7agBd6rM9JqU9RFzYtHBmsJmk6g80oan9lcy8P2YWpVRiVBu-eDHkEibJC8Qsfxvov_MSy6BuEUsGAD12WYgVj55i01igLMOrekk_AZhLHjWO3slKmFSOtw" width="452" height="301" />
Milford
All state parks in Connecticut are free to residents, making a weekend BBQ a breeze with your friends and family! Arrive early to reserve a picnic table and grill. This park also has a new concession stand & bath house. You can walk to Charles island during low tide or follow the boardwalk to Walnut Beach to play Vollyball.
<br />Westport-wide Scavenger Hunt
<img alt="A building next to a river
Description automatically generated" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/9AgvATU-l4iGVzv-D261oCVCFRFGGU7KIX0UB2Bc7NGpAVjxctvCNkO9tBq9h-86cqsHKVnPgP-KxBuoOaHo7EJbiUZxS4KfXij2IdG2lYLMCZcVB5KyEhDZfKTsEwOnpbv9oBzlm6R7Ju2twT2QHA" width="457" height="259" />
Now- September 9th
Westport
Hosted by: Westport Museum for History and Culture
Join locals in their quest to find all 12 “quilt” squares hidden around town providing the history of Westport. Once you find a 12x12 piece of artwork, you’ll need to solve the riddle. You can hand in your answers once you have at 8 to win one of two great prizes by 5pm September 9th. Click the link for more details.
Free for members/$5 for non-members
<a href="https://westporthistory.org/events/scavenger-hunt/">https://westporthistory.org/events/scavenger-hunt/</a>
Sources:
<a href="https://www.dol.gov/general/laborday/history">https://www.dol.gov/general/laborday/history</a>
<a href="https://www.ctvisit.com/this-weekend">https://www.ctvisit.com/this-weekend</a>2023-09-05T13:37:40-07:002023-09-06T07:24:15-07:00Tanya Walshtag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13592Before You List Your Home This Fall...<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/blog_graphic.png" width="500" height="300" />
As we are heading into the Fall 2023 real estate market, the number of homes for sale as compared to 2022 remains low, and, despite rising mortgage interest rates, the number of active buyers creating demand and competion for homes remains high.
<br />In Fairfield County, for example, heading into August... the Inventory of Homes for Sale was 38.6% less than the same time last year (low supply) while Median Sales Price was 8.5% higher and % of List Price Received was 104.3% (both indicating high demand).
<br />But even in this market favorable to sellers, presenting your home in its best light is critical in order to maximize selling price and to shorten market time.<br />Wondering what kind of budget you may need to prepare your home for sale<br />without breaking the bank? The answer is...it depends on your home.<br />First, for a general overview, check out the infographic below, published by the National Association of Realtors, which outlines the repairs and enhancements most recommended by listing agents, as well as their average cost as estimated by Fixit.com:
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WUIMwe0q6OUowESTzi3ZzU-npMU2KVPvJFInNpYFgBoCXS5hgUVVNNr7bRtf4Qtvi0v-tOqBVOVssHNFM25jvYXAA-yPcdch-UyRi350-4doDlfCyGgST3dVNFF2FbhYkRLoTi5T73hTiciFnNK1HHs" width="440" height="503" />
But before you pull out that card or checkbook, consult with a Realtor on which actions will add the most value and appeal to your specific home, and which to forego. (For example, it may only be recommended to paint two rooms at a cost of $2,000, or to landscape only an area near the house at $900).
I and my colleagues with the Vanderblue Team would be delighted to provide you with customized low-cost and no-cost ways to ensure your home is presented at its finest, as well as our network of trusted provider partners who often offer cost savings to sellers.
<br />Call me to set up a time to discuss your goals and timing plus many other strategies to assist you in achieving the highest possible selling price this Fall!2023-08-28T08:26:18-07:002023-08-28T11:59:33-07:00Sharon Montesantitag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13568The Great Debate: Owning a House vs. Renting – Exploring the Benefits<img alt="" class="featured featured" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Untitled%20design%20(13).jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Untitled%20design%20(13).jpg" />
The decision to own a house or rent a place is a significant one, laden with financial and lifestyle implications. Both options have their merits, and the choice often boils down to personal circumstances, goals, and preferences. In this blog, we'll delve into the benefits of owning a house versus renting, helping you navigate this important decision with a clearer perspective.
<br />1. Building Equity
Owning a house allows you to build equity over time as you pay down your mortgage. Each payment contributes to ownership, and as the value of the property appreciates, your net worth increases. In contrast, renting does not offer this opportunity for wealth accumulation.
<br />2. Stability and Long-Term Investment
Homeownership provides a sense of stability and the opportunity to establish roots in a community. It can also serve as a long-term investment, potentially yielding financial returns when you decide to sell.
<br />3. Personalization and Creative Freedom
Homeownership gives you the freedom to personalize and modify your space according to your taste and needs. Paint walls, renovate the kitchen, or create a backyard oasis – the possibilities are endless. Renting often comes with restrictions on such changes.
<br />4. Predictable Monthly Costs
Fixed-rate mortgages provide predictable monthly payments, allowing you to budget more effectively. Renting, on the other hand, can be subject to rent increases, potentially disrupting your financial plans.
<br />5. Tax Benefits
Homeownership often comes with tax advantages, such as deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes. These deductions can help lower your overall tax burden.
<br />6. Potential Rental Income
If you own a home with extra space, you have the option to generate rental income by leasing out a portion of your property. This can be a lucrative way to offset your mortgage costs.
<br />7. Sense of Pride and Ownership
Owning a house can instill a sense of pride and accomplishment. It's a tangible asset that you can call your own, contributing to your overall well-being and self-esteem.
<br />8. Long-Term Financial Planning
Homeownership is often seen as a part of long-term financial planning, providing a source of stability during retirement. It can serve as a valuable asset that you can leverage if needed.
<br />9. Freedom from Landlord Restrictions
When you own a home, you're not subject to the whims of a landlord. You have more control over your living environment and the decisions that affect your property.
<br />10. Hedging Against Inflation
Real estate has historically served as a hedge against inflation. As the cost of living rises, the value of your property may also increase, helping you maintain purchasing power.2023-08-25T07:11:51-07:002023-08-25T07:13:52-07:00Serkan Gokkiyastag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13510My Personal Advice for Your Urban to Suburban Journey!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Untitled_design_11.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Like many folks, my family and I fled the city during the pandemic to seek shelter in Westport, where I grew up. Come the end of August of 2020 we realized that we needed to start looking at houses. We took 2 weeks, looked at 8 houses in several different towns and finally found our current home. Like most folks who bought during the pandemic, our home had one open house, that yielded 7 offers, resulting in a best and final ending.
Now, having grown up in the area I had an idea of where we as a family should land in order to create a new life that works well for all of us but the majority of our sphere that fled the city and scattered themselves across Faifield County weren’t so lucky. Here are things to consider:
1) Find an agent/team that is really embedded in each town and who can really help you find the place that fits you and your family best. Like in NYC, not only does each town have its unique personality but within each town neighborhood you will find differences as well. Having an agent who can speak to these nuances will land you in the right spot
2) Pre-pandemic shopping, you probably were looking at everything through a vacation/weekend escape lens. Don’t forget to adjust that vantage point to be what would be best for you in daily life.
3) As important as commute time is, looking one more town down the train line could be the difference between night and day, be open minded about this.
4) Research towns in addition to the guidance you get from others. Read the town paper, look up the local social clubs and their activities, check out each towns government website…learn the towns focus and vision and you will better understand the community. Community is everything.
5) Get involved in your community and create the life you dream of.2023-08-16T08:32:43-07:002023-08-16T08:43:41-07:00Nicole O'Reillytag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13473Easy Tips For Growing A Pollinator Garden!<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pollinator%20garden.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pollinator%20garden.png" class="featured" />
Creating a pollinator garden specifically tailored to the New England region can help support local pollinators and enhance the natural beauty of your yard. Here are some ideas for a New England pollinator garden:
Native Plant Selection
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.55.28%20AM.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.55.28%20AM.png" />
Focus on incorporating native plant species that are well-suited to the New England climate and provide nectar, pollen, and habitat for local pollinators. Some examples of native plants include wild columbine, milkweed, asters, goldenrod, bee balm, New England aster, purple coneflower, Joe-Pye weed, and black-eyed Susan.
Seasonal Blooms
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.51.38%20AM.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.51.38%20AM.png" />
Plan your garden to have a variety of plants that bloom at different times throughout the growing season. This provides a consistent food source for pollinators from early spring to late fall. Include early bloomers like bloodroot and trillium, mid-season plants like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans, and late bloomers like goldenrod and asters.
Create Layers
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.43.38%20AM.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.43.38%20AM.png" />
Incorporate plants of different heights and forms to provide diverse habitats and foraging opportunities. Combine taller plants like sunflowers or Joe-Pye weed with mid-sized flowers such as butterfly weed or bee balm, and lower-growing plants like creeping phlox or moss pink. Include shrubs and trees like viburnums or serviceberries for additional structure and shelter.
Water Source
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pollinator%20water.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pollinator%20water.jpg" />
Include a shallow water source like a birdbath or a small pond with rocks or pebbles to provide water for pollinators. Be sure to keep the water source clean and refill it regularly to maintain its freshness.
Groupings and Clusters
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.50.43%20AM.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2011.50.43%20AM.png" />
Plant flowers in clusters or drifts rather than single specimens. This helps pollinators easily locate and access the nectar and pollen sources. Grouping plants of the same species together also increases the chances of successful pollination.
Avoid Pesticides
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2012.14.32%20PM.png" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-02%20at%2012.14.32%20PM.png" />
Minimize or eliminate the use of pesticides in your garden. Pesticides can harm pollinators, so opt for organic and sustainable pest management practices, such as companion planting, crop rotation, and natural pest predators.
Add Native Grasses
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/ct%20grasses.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/ct%20grasses.jpg" />
Incorporate native grasses like little bluestem, switchgrass, or Indian grass. These grasses offer shelter and nesting sites for ground-nesting bees and other beneficial insects, while also adding texture and visual interest to the garden.
Maintenance and Care
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Regularly maintain the garden by deadheading spent flowers, removing weeds, and providing appropriate irrigation. This helps keep the garden healthy and attractive to pollinators.
Remember, it's essential to research and choose plants that are native to your specific location in New England to best support the local pollinator populations. Consulting with local garden centers, native plant societies, or extension services can provide further guidance on suitable plant species for your area.2023-08-09T10:52:29-07:002023-08-09T10:55:43-07:00Lorelei Atwoodtag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13470How to Choose the Best Short Term Rental When Investing<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Untitled_design_9.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
When choosing a short-term rental as an investment, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make a wise decision. Here are some key considerations:
1. Location
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Downtown%20Community%20Theatre.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Downtown%20Community%20Theatre.jpg" />
The location of the property plays a crucial role in its success as a short-term rental. Look for areas with high demand from tourists or business travelers, such as popular tourist destinations, city centers, or proximity to major attractions, events, or business hubs.
2. Rental Demand
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/longshore%20shoreline.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/longshore%20shoreline.jpg" />
Research the rental demand in the area to determine if there is a consistent and sufficient market for short-term rentals. Analyze occupancy rates, seasonal variations, and the presence of local events or festivals that attract visitors.
3. Regulations and Legal Considerations
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Fairfield%20ariel.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/Fairfield%20ariel.jpg" />
Understand the local regulations and legal requirements for short-term rentals in the area. Some cities or neighborhoods may have specific restrictions or licensing requirements that could affect your investment plans.
4. Property Size and Amenities
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Consider the size and layout of the property. Determine if it can comfortably accommodate guests and if it offers desirable amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, parking, or outdoor spaces like a patio or garden.
5. Competition and Unique Selling Points
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Assess the level of competition in the area and identify unique selling points for your rental property. Determine what sets your property apart from others, such as a stunning view, proximity to popular attractions, or special features that will attract guests.
6. Financial Feasibility
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pexels-joslyn-pickens-3833052.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/pexels-joslyn-pickens-3833052.jpg" />
Evaluate the financial feasibility of the investment. Calculate the potential rental income based on occupancy rates, average daily rates, and seasonal variations. Consider expenses such as mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and management fees. Ensure that the potential rental income covers these costs and provides a reasonable return on investment.
7. Property Management
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/10-copy.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/10-copy.jpg" />
Decide whether you will manage the property yourself or hire a property management company. If you choose to outsource management, research reputable companies in the area and consider their fees, services, and reputation.
8. Guest Reviews
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Read guest reviews of similar properties in the area to get an understanding of what guests value and any potential issues that might arise. Positive reviews and feedback can help attract more bookings.
9. Long-Term Growth Potential
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Consider the long-term growth potential of the area. Look for factors such as improving infrastructure, increasing tourism, expanding businesses, or upcoming developments that could positively impact property values and rental demand.
10. Risk Management
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Assess the risks associated with short-term rentals, such as potential fluctuations in demand, regulatory changes, or economic factors. Consider diversifying your investment portfolio to mitigate risks.
Remember, thorough research, due diligence, and careful financial analysis are essential when choosing a short-term rental as an investment. Consulting with local real estate professionals like The Vanderblue Team or experienced investors in the area can also provide valuable insights.2023-08-09T10:42:24-07:002023-08-09T10:50:47-07:00Mariana Patronetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13465Five Kitchen Design Trends Here to Stay in 2023<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Untitled_design_8.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
"2022 was a unique year for kitchen trends. Homeowners and investors were finally able to finish up projects that had become long delayed during the pandemic. But, overall, after many years of seeing so much of the same look, especially the all-white, open kitchen, trends finally started to evolve.
2023 is setting out to be a new era for kitchen design trends, pushing the boundaries of new styles and concepts that began to fall into favor in 2022 to the forefront of the latest and greatest in design. Here are five kitchen design trends here to stay, according to interior designers and experts."
Custom Built-In Appliances
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/custom_built_in_appliances-2048x1418.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/custom_built_in_appliances-2048x1418.jpg" />
Working Pantries
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/butlers_pantry-2048x1365.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/butlers_pantry-2048x1365.jpg" />
Double Islands
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/kitchen_islands-2048x1366.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/kitchen_islands-2048x1366.jpg" />
Bold Stone
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/mixed_medium_luxury_kitchen-2048x1367.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/mixed_medium_luxury_kitchen-2048x1367.jpg" />
Custom Cabinetry and Appliance Garages
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/orange_kitchen_cabinetry-2048x1536.jpg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/orange_kitchen_cabinetry-2048x1536.jpg" />
By Amanda Lauren
Read the full article at <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/five-kitchen-design-trends-here-to-stay-in-2023" href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/five-kitchen-design-trends-here-to-stay-in-2023">https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/five-kitchen-design-trends-here-to-stay-in-2023</a>2023-08-09T10:36:03-07:002023-08-09T10:41:58-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:13462Six Ways to Elevate Traditional Homes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/Untitled_design_7.jpg" width="500" height="300" />
Despite the popularity of modern design, there are still many people building, buying and living in traditional-style homes. Traditional homes tend to have a warm, charming and often homey feel. But traditional homes can also feel boring, tired and dated. Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance this aesthetic. Here are six ways you can elevate any traditional home easily as seen in luxury homes that were on the market in 2022.
Statement Staircases
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/statement%20staircase.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/statement%20staircase.jpeg" />
Casement Windows
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/casement%20window.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/casement%20window.jpeg" />
Built-ins
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/built%20ins.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/built%20ins.jpeg" />
Millwork
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/millwork.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/millwork.jpeg" />
Herringbone Flooring
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/herringbone.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/herringbone.jpeg" />
Checkerboard Flooring
<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/checkerboard%20floor.jpeg" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/8763/blog/checkerboard%20floor.jpeg" />
Read the full article <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/six-ways-to-elevate-traditional-homes" href="https://www.forbesglobalproperties.com/trends/six-ways-to-elevate-traditional-homes"> HERE</a>.
by Amanda Lauren2023-08-09T10:23:54-07:002023-08-09T10:34:58-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:12162Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/getting-a-home-mortgage.jpg" alt="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" title="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" height="410" width="750" /> Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop around until they find a lender who is offering something that will meet the needs of their family. Mortgage lending companies have high standards so it is important to make sure you and anyone else who will be included on the mortgage have their credit in check. The mortgage market is strict because lenders do not want to be put in a situation where they are forced to repurchase loans that are not paid on. They also do not want to end up in a litigation situation due to loan issues. What Has Happened to the Number of Mortgages? Due to the strict nature and requirements of the lending companies, the number of mortgages given out has significantly dropped. A report by the Housing Financial Policy Center at the Urban Institute showed that about 6.3 million fewer mortgages were given out between 2009 and 2015. The reasons behind this statistic are strict regulations and policies. These mortgages would have been granted if the lending standards where more reasonable. Mortgage companies rely on calculations to determine if a home buyer will become delinquent on their payment. They will not give you a loan if you are too much of a risk for them. Credit history has a huge impact on this decision since lenders can see how often you pay back your debts. The history they receive is extensive. This view into your financial past causes lenders to take less risk when lending to you for your mortgage. The Effect on the Economy The housing market is recovering at a slower pace than it should since less potential homebuyers are being offered loans. While the market is still recovering with positive trends, fewer buyers can create a strain on other economic factors like home goods or construction jobs. Bottom Line After the housing market boom and bust, mortgage lenders became stricter in their lending standards. It is not impossible to get a mortgage loan, but it can still be difficult for potential home buyers. Stay on top of your credit and make sure you and anyone else who is applying are in a good financial position so you can be approved for a loan. It is important to research different companies and their requirements to ensure success in getting a mortgage.2023-03-10T08:48:08-07:002023-03-10T08:49:53-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:12161Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/selling-in-the-winter-attracts-serious-buyers.jpg" alt="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" title="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" height="410" width="750" /> The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities. Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to getting your home sold. Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale. Bottom Line If you need to sell your home right away, or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2023-03-10T08:48:08-07:002023-03-10T08:49:57-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:12160Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/3-questions-to-ask-before-buying-your-dream-home.jpg" alt="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" title="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" height="410" width="750" /> It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market. It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home. 1. Why am I Buying a Home? Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include schools for your children, a safe environment, more room for your family to grow, and control of your own space. These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs. 2. What is the Trend with Home Values? Our current economy and housing market is strong. That means home values and mortgage rates are increasing. If you are looking to purchase a home but want to stay within a budget, it may be in your best interest to move quickly. It is forecasted for these trends to continue in an upward motion, causing home values to continue to increase. 3. What About Current Mortgage Rates? The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. Current trends show mortgage rates are rising. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home, since the rates may be even higher down the road. Bottom Line You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. This budget may affect the amount of time you have to search for a home, since home prices and mortgage rates are increasing. 2023-03-10T08:48:08-07:002023-03-10T08:49:48-07:00Julie Vanderbluetag:vanderblue.com,2012-09-20:12159Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/4810/image/mortgage-rate-projections.jpg" alt="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " title="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " height="410" width="750" /> There has been some discussion recently on home prices in relation to mortgage rates. Some believe if there is a rapid rise of mortgage rates, home prices should decrease. Logically it makes the most sense for the price of the house to drop when interest rates are rising, but this is not always the case. This theory of home prices decreasing is typically discussed by future home buyers. As a buyer you would like to think if you are paying higher rates on your mortgage, you should be able to see a decrease in cost somewhere else. Unfortunately, these rates are rising because the economy is in better shape. As the economy succeeds, incomes rise, rates go up, as well as the price of the home. A recent study by the John Burns Real Estate Consulting found mortgage rates have very little impact on the cost of the home. The housing market and price increases are affected by things like job growth in the area and rising wages. Coincidentally, these same factors are causing the rise in the mortgage rates since people can afford to take out more. Bottom Line As the economy progresses and strengthens, mortgage rates and home prices will fluctuate. It is a misconception as rates increase, home prices will decrease. Advances in the economy have shown that rates and home prices are more likely to increase together.2023-03-10T08:48:08-07:002023-03-10T08:49:45-07:00Julie Vanderblue