APRIL 1, 2023
Informative | April Fools Day FSBO
Did you believe me, even for even a second? April Fools!
All joking aside, unless you are a licensed real estate agent, you should not sell your home yourself (FSBO = for sale by owner).
If you're considering selling your home without an agent, ask yourself these questions before you make your decision:
- How will you determine your list price?
- What will you do to prep your home?
- How will you market your home?
- Do you know how to write a contract?
- Have you sold a home before?
- Do you feel comfortable handling all the paperwork and legalities?
- Do you have time to schedule showings & host open houses?
- Do you know the market value of your home?
- Do you feel comfortable selling your own home?
If you are unable to answer all of these questions with a confident "YES", you should consider using a real estate agent to guide you through the process of selling your home.
Thinking about selling your home in 2023 and looking for a real estate agent? I'd love to connect with you to see if we'd work well together - send me a DM, and let's chat!
APRIL 2, 2023
Home Tips | April Home Maintenance Checklist
Spring is the perfect time to catch up on your home maintenance tasks! A well-maintained home will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. Regular home maintenance is crucial to ensure your home stays in tip-top shape year-round!
Welcome the spring season by putting aside some time this month to take care of the place you call home.
Here is your April home maintenance checklist👇🏼
1. Change HVAC filters
2. Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
3. Clean out your pantry + throw away expired/unwanted items
4. Organize your linen closet
5. Inspect your sprinkler heads & test the irrigation system
6. Clean garbage disposal
7. Seal cracks on windows and doors
8. Schedule pest control
9. Check water softener
10. Update your first aid kit, check fire extinguishers, and review your fire escape plan
Save this post by clicking the bookmark icon above!📌
APRIL 3, 2023
Local | April In **Insert City, State**
Whether it's hitting up a local spring festival, enjoying some live music, attending a baseball game, or grabbing some fresh produce at the local farmers market, there are many ways to enjoy the season.
There are plenty of fun things to do this spring in **INSERT CITY**. Here are a few local events happening this month that you shouldn't miss!
APRIL 4, 2023
Informative | 6 Common Reasons Why Sellers Reject Purchase Offers
Rejection is never easy and can be extremely discouraging, especially for first-time homebuyers. You might wonder what went wrong and what you could've done differently.
There are several reasons why a seller might reject an offer, but it's helpful for buyers to know the most common reasons to avoid losing out on the home of their dreams.
Here are 6 common reasons a seller may reject your offer:
1. Your offer was lower than the asking price, and the sellers want more for their home (there's also a chance they felt offended or insulted by your lowball offer).
2. You didn't submit a pre-approval or pre-qualification letter with your offer. Without a mortgage pre-approval or pre-qualification letter, the seller has no idea if you can qualify for a mortgage or not.
3. Your offer had too many contingencies, making the seller worry about the transaction closing smoothly and on time.
4. The sellers received a stronger offer and accepted that one instead of yours.
5. Your time frame didn't work for the seller. If you are in a rush to move in, but the seller is buying another home and hasn't found one yet, they may need to find a buyer with more flexibility.
6. You didn't include any earnest money with your offer. An earnest money deposit is made to a seller with your purchase agreement, representing a buyer's good faith in buying a home. An earnest money deposit is generally 1-3% of the purchase price. If you back out of the deal due to a change of heart, the seller will get to keep your earnest money. An offer without earnest money is more likely to be rejected by the seller, as they may assume you aren't serious about purchasing.
Have questions about the home-buying process? Send me a DM or comment below — I'd love to connect and chat more with you!
APRIL 5, 2023
Personal | Two Truths & A Lie About Me
Swipe 👉🏼 and comment below which one is a lie!
APRIL 6, 2023
Home Tips | Winter To Spring Transition Decor Tips
Here are a few ways to effortlessly transition your home from winter to spring and prepare for the season ahead.
APRIL 7, 2023
Local | National Beer Day: 3 Of My Favorite Breweries In **Insert City**
APRIL 8, 2023
Informative | 5 Tips For Saving For Homeownership
APRIL 9, 2023
Seasonal | Happy Easter
Today seems like the perfect opportunity to explore **Insert City**'s blossoming craft beer scene.
If you're looking for the best breweries in **Insert City**, look no further! Here are 3 local breweries that hit the spot every time.
Here are some tips to help you tighten up your budget, save some major money, and make your homeownership dreams come true!
1. Make a realistic savings goal. Your savings goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (known as the SMART goal method). The SMART goal method is an effective and straightforward way to create an action plan and determine the steps you need to take to achieve your goal!
2. Check your credit! Credit plays a huge role in qualifying for a mortgage. As a homebuyer, your credit score will positively or negatively affect your loan options, interest rates, mortgage terms, and how much house you can afford.
3. Reduce your expenses! There are many creative and small ways to save more money for homeownership, from cutting down on eating out to canceling unnecessary subscriptions or memberships you’ve forgotten about.
4. Automate your finances to save both time and money! Setting up automatic systems to manage your money is a great way to reach your financial goals, mitigate mistakes, reduce spending temptation, and check mundane items off your to-do list with minimal stress or effort.
5. Create a budget and stick to it! Calculate your net income, list your monthly fixed and variable expenses, and go through past bank/credit card statements to accurately track your spending. Set financial goals, find creative ways to cut corners, ensure you aren’t living above your means, and schedule monthly check-ins to stay aware of your spending habits and on track with your budget.
Have questions about the buying process? I’d love to connect and chat more with you — send me a DM!
I hope you're enjoying the beautiful spring weather and spending time with your loved ones today.
Here's to a wonderful weekend and an even better week ahead! From my family to yours, Happy Easter!
APRIL 10, 2023
Informative | Home Buying Timeline
On average, it takes 3-4 months to shop for a home and 30-60 days to close on your property once you're under contract.
There are a lot of variables that go into buying a house that could make things move faster or slower. The timeline differs for each individual and depends on the housing marketing, inventory, time of year, your financing needs, and the kind of home you're looking for.
Here's a generic outline of the buying process from beginning to end (with the average amount of time each step takes) so you can get an idea of what to expect when buying a home!
1. Find a trusted and knowledgeable real estate agent: 1-2 weeks
2. Get a pre-approval letter from your mortgage lender: 1-2 weeks
3. Make your home buying wishlist: 2-3 days
4. Tour homes with your real estate agent: 2 weeks-3 months
5. Submit an offer: 1-2 days
6. Negotiate if necessary: 2 days-1 week
7. Get loan approval and do home appraisal and inspection: 1-2 months
8. Sign closing documents and get the keys to your new home: 1 days
Interested in homeownership? DM me — I would love to chat more with you about the home-buying process!
APRIL 11, 2023
Local | National Pet Day In **Insert City, State**
**Insert City** has plenty of pet-friendly things to do! In honor of National Pet Day, here is my guide to pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities that both you AND your furry friend will love.
Where to stay when visiting **Insert City** with pets:
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Hotel 1**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Hotel 2**
Pet-friendly restaurants and breweries:
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Restaurant 1**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Restaurant 2**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Restaurant 3**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Brewery 1**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Brewery 2**
Pet-friendly hiking trails:
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Hiking Trail Location 1**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Hiking Trail Location 2**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Hiking Trail Location 3**
Pet-friendly activities:
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Coffee Shop**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Museum**
- **Insert Local Pet-Friendly Shopping Mall**
- **Insert Local Pet Play Group/Training Classes**
Did I miss one of your favorite pet-friendly spots in (**INSERT CITY**)? Share below!
APRIL 12, 2023
Informative | What Is Homebuyer's Remorse + How To Avoid It
In short, homebuyer's remorse is when a new homeowner regrets the new home they purchased and feels it was not the right decision.
Often, homebuyer's remorse occurs when the buyer purchases a home above their budget, rushes their purchase decision, makes too many compromises, or buys a home after being pressured to make an offer.
How do you avoid homebuyer's remorse? Ask yourself these questions before you put in an offer on a home:
1. Does this home fit into your budget comfortably?
2. Did you double-check your wants and needs list?
3. Are you still looking at other options?
4. Do you have concerns about moving too quickly?
5. Does the neighborhood feel good to you?
6. Is the property in good condition?
7. Are you settling?
8. Can you see yourself living in this home long-term?
9. Are you comfortable with paying the mortgage payment and utility expenses monthly?
The perfect house doesn't exist, so if you start feeling anxious when your offer gets accepted, it may just be nervous butterflies. Trust your gut, examine the logistics, don't rush the process, and trust you'll make the right choice!
APRIL 13, 2023
Informative | Why You Should List Your Home This Spring
Seasonality influences the real estate market significantly, and spring is considered the peak season for home sales.
Buyers often lay low in the winter months, waiting for warmer weather to emerge from hibernation.
As the school year ends and the temperatures rise, buyers start getting serious about the house-hunting process.
With an influx of new buyers and not enough houses for sale (due to low inventory), this will increase your chances of selling your home for a higher price and on a quicker timeline.
Considering selling your home this spring? Now is a great time to start the process and get your house ready to sell. I'd love to work with you! Let's connect — send me a DM!
APRIL 14, 2023
Home Tips | Target Home Decor Must Haves For Spring 2023
Here are some of my favorite spring home decor finds from Target!
1. 60"x86" Oversized 100% Cotton Bed Throw - the perfect lightweight blanket for transitioning from winter to spring weather!
2. Moringa Artificial Tree Green - bring greenery into your home to liven up your space + welcome the new season!
3. Rectangle Tapered Chevron Seagrass Basket - a chic and stylish way to add more storage to your space!
4. 8oz Tinter Gray Glass Woodwick Candle with Gold Metal Screw Top Lid Coconut and Honey - a scent that screams spring!
5. 24" Faux Seeded Eucalyptus with Berry Wreath - freshen up your porch by adding a new wreath to your front door!
6. 13.5oz Stoneware Figural Bunny Mug - the perfect mug for your cup of coffee on Easter morning!
What's your favorite thing about this time of year? Comment below!
APRIL 15, 2023
Personal | How To Work With Me In 2023
Buyers and sellers should start getting their ducks in a row as early as 3-6 months before they plan to buy or sell. The more you prepare beforehand, the easier and smoother the process will be.
I'd love to give you a rundown on where the real estate market is headed, answer your questions about the buying/selling process, and help you develop a clear and actionable plan to reach your real estate goals!
Send me a DM, and let's get something on the books! 📅
APRIL 16, 2023
Informative | 10 Signs A Home Might Be “The One”
APRIL 17, 2023
Informative | 5 Secrets To A Successful Home Sale
APRIL 18, 2023
Personal | Client Testimonial
Here are 10 tell-tale signs that suggest you've found the home of your dreams:
1. You lose interest in seeing other homes.
2. It checks all (or most) of your boxes.
3. You can picture yourself living there, where your furniture will go, and how you will decorate the place.
4. The home fits your future and gives you room to grow.
5. You don't have any second thoughts.
6. You can't wait to tell your friends and family.
7. You feel at home when you walk in the door.
8. You are able to overlook any minor flaws.
9. You love the location.
10. The price of the home doesn't stress you out.
Interested in homeownership? I'd love to give you more information about the home-buying process and answer any questions you might have. Send me a DM, and let's chat!
If you are looking to sell your home this spring, here are 5 of my secrets for a successful home sale:
1. Use an experienced + trustworthy real estate agent who knows the ins and outs of the market.
2. Depersonalize and declutter as much as possible.
3. Hire a professional photographer to take listing photos.
4. Price your home competitively and in line with the market. The listing price of a home can make or break the sale!
5. Spruce up your curb appeal to make a solid first impression on potential buyers.
Considering selling your home? I'd love to work with you and guide you through the process. Send me a DM, and I'll be in touch!
Congratulations to **@TagYourClients** on your beautiful new home! Thank you for the kind words and for allowing me to guide you through the buying process!
Testimonials like these are the heartbeat of my business. My job is so rewarding and I feel very grateful to do what I love, each and every day!
APRIL 19, 2023
Informative | Things To Consider When Choosing A Neighborhood
You can renovate and make changes to a home, but one thing you'll never be able to change is the location!
Here are some things to think about before choosing a neighborhood:
1. Neighborhood safety: Check criminal reports, look at crime rates, converse with the neighbors, visit the neighborhood at night, and ensure the streets are well-lit. Would you feel safe walking around the neighborhood alone?
2. School district: If you have kids or plan on having kids in the future, living in a reputable school district is critical to giving your children a good education. Even homebuyers who don't have kids can benefit from living in a good school district, as it can help increase your home's value over time.
3. Amenities: Is it necessary to you to have neighborhood amenities like a community pool, tennis courts, parks, walking trails, or a gym?
4. Location: Would you like to be close to grocery stores, pharmacies, department stores, and restaurants? Do you work in an office, and if so, would you like to live nearby?
5. Emergency services: Do you have health conditions requiring you to be near a hospital or doctor's office?
6. Lifestyle and preferences: Does the neighborhood fit your lifestyle and needs? Could you see yourself making friends with the neighbors and getting involved in the community?
Interested in homeownership? I'd love to work with you and guide you through the process! Send me a DM, and I'll be in touch!
APRIL 20, 2023
Home Tips | Amazon Tools + Gadgets For Spring Cleaning
Here’s what to search on Amazon👇🏼
1. MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
2. IEZFIX Electric Spin Scrubber
3. Dust Whisperer Washable Microfiber Duster
4. BLACK+DECKER Steam Cleaner
5. Tineco Floor ONE S3 Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
6. STARUMENT Portable Hand Vacuum Cleaner
APRIL 21, 2023
Local | 3 Romantic Spring Date Ideas In **INSERT CITY**
Who better to enjoy the spring season with than your significant other? Here are 3 spring-themed date ideas to explore in **Insert City**!
1. Pack a basket of your favorite wine, cheese, fruit, deli meats, and snacks, and head to **Insert Local Picnic/Hiking Trails** for a scenic hike and an afternoon picnic!
2. Grab some cowboy boots and your sweetheart for a night of line dancing and live country music! Head to **Insert Local Country Bar**, grab a drink, and hit the dance floor for a night of western fun!
3. Catch a baseball game at **Insert Local Baseball Park**, snack on some peanuts or cracker jacks, and cheer on your home team with your boo! Let's go, **Insert Local Baseball Team**, let's go!
APRIL 22, 2023
Seasonal | Earth Day/Ways To Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly
There are many benefits to having a sustainable home, including tax incentives, reducing your carbon footprint, lessening your environmental impact, and potentially even lowering your monthly bills.
The good news is that making your home more eco-friendly is not as complicated as you might think. Here are a few ways to make your home greener and more environmentally friendly!
APRIL 23, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 1
To participate, you must dedicate 90 minutes to working around your home each day on the task list provided. Even if you have only 30 minutes a day, make it a goal to complete as many tasks as possible, as doing something is always better than doing nothing!
The most challenging part of cleaning is taking the first step and knowing where to start. Joining this challenge will help you make spring cleaning effortless, easy, and, dare I say it, even enjoyable!
Today's tasks focus on decluttering and tackling those pesky projects you keep putting off. Here are your tasks for today:
Day 1 of this challenge is all about decluttering. Here are your tasks for today:
1. Purge your make-up and skincare drawers (throw away or donate products you don't use and check expiration dates) - approx. 20 minutes
2. Go through old papers and documents + throw away junk mail - approx. 15 minutes
3. Organize your junk drawer - approx. 25 minutes
4. Tidy up your closet + donate old or unused shoes and clothes - approx. 30 minutes
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 24, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 2
"Clutter zones" are those notorious spaces in your home that quickly pile up with clutter and become a disorganized disaster overnight. These "clutter zones" are typically where everyone drops their stuff when they first walk into the door (think jackets, backpacks, sports gear, purses, shopping bags, etc.).
Common "clutter zones" are the kitchen counter, dining room table, laundry room, office desk, mudroom, or living room.
Today's task shouldn't take more than 45-60 minutes to complete, and it will immediately make your home feel 10x more organized and tidy.
Today, it's time to focus on organizing your clutter zones + creating a better, more functional system for your everyday household items (the items that end up in your "clutter zones").
Make a list of your top 3-4 "clutter zones", set your timer for 45-60 minutes, turn on your favorite playlist, and let's get those "clutter zones" looking spick and span!
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 25, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 3
Here are your tasks for today:
1. Throw away expired spices and herbs - approx. 10 minutes
2. Empty the dishwasher and wash dishes - approx. 15 minutes
3. Clean your garbage disposal with baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils - approx. 5 minutes
4. Clean your microwave by heating up a bowl of vinegar and baking soda for 3-5 minutes, then wiping down the entire inside of the microwave - approx. 10 minutes
5. Throw away expired, stale, or old items in the pantry, refrigerator, and freezer - approx. 15 minutes
6. Scrub your sink and faucet with hot water and dish soap - approx. 10 minutes
7. Clean your counters and stovetop - approx. 15 minutes
8. Take out the trash - approx. 2 minutes
9. Polish appliance exteriors - approx. 8 minutes
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 26, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 4
The tasks and time estimates on the checklist below are only for tidying and cleaning one bathroom. If you have more than one bathroom in your home, today’s challenge will take you longer than 90 minutes to complete.
If you have multiple bathrooms to clean, get creative! Assign a bathroom to each household member or complete the tasks in the bathroom you use the most!
Here are your tasks for today:
1. Organize your drawers and cabinets, throw away empty containers and products you don’t use, and sort your items by category (hair, make-up, oral hygiene, feminine care, first aid, etc.) - approx. 25 minutes
2. Wipe down the countertops, sinks, and faucets with all-purpose spray and a microfiber cloth - approx. 10 minutes
3. Use a toilet bowl cleaner and a scrub brush to clean your toilet - approx. 10 minutes
4. Throw your rugs into the washing machine - approx. 5 minutes
5. Clean the shower and tub with Dawn dishwashing detergent, vinegar, and a scrub brush - approx. 20 minutes
6. Wipe down the mirrors with a glass spray - approx. 5 minutes
7. Replace your razors, electric toothbrush heads, and loofahs + restock products - approx. 10 minutes
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 27, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 5
Your bedroom should be a place to rest, recharge, and relax after a long day. We spend anywhere from 6-12 hours in our bedroom each day (sleeping, watching tv, laying in bed, etc.), so taking the time to make your bedroom a space you truly love is time well spent!
Similar to yesterday, the tasks and time estimates on the checklist below are only for tidying and cleaning one bedroom. If you live in a home with multiple bedrooms, today’s challenge will take you longer than 90 minutes to complete. To speed up the process, assign a bedroom to each household member or complete the tasks in the bedrooms you use the most!
Here are your tasks for today:
1. Put away clothes, shoes, and other clutter - approx. 10 minutes
2. Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and duvet cover or quilt - approx. 10 minutes
3. Clean your mattress with baking soda to kill odors, and use a mix of baking soda and vinegar to treat stains - approx. 10 minutes
4. Remake your bed with fresh linens - approx. 15 minutes
5. Clean all surfaces (nightstands, bed frame, dresser, etc.) - approx. 10 minutes
6. Add some fresh flowers or a new plant - approx. 5 minutes
7. Organize your dresser and nightstand drawers - approx. 20 minutes
8. Clean and vacuum under the bed - approx. 10 minutes
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 28, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 6
The next two days are for scrubbing, mopping, dusting, buffing, polishing, vacuuming, and making your home sparkle + shine.
Deep cleaning your entire home will likely take more than 90 minutes, so I split the tasks into 2 separate days (today and tomorrow are both dedicated to cleaning).
Here are your tasks for today:
1. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors
2. Wipe walls and dust baseboards
3. Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
4. Dust blinds, curtain rods, and window sills
5. Dust furniture, bookshelves, electronics, etc
Today’s challenge could potentially take you more than 90 minutes to complete, depending on the size of your home and how quickly you clean! Speed up the process and make it a group effort by assigning tasks to other household members!
Follow me to keep up with the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! 🧹🧼
APRIL 29, 2023
Spring Cleaning Challenge | Day 7
Here are your tasks for today:
1. Sanitize door handles, knobs, light switches, and outlets
2. Wash door mats and rugs
3. Clean windows (inside & out)
4. Replace light bulbs and HVAC filters
5. Vacuum furniture
Today's challenge could take you more than 90 minutes to complete, depending on the size of your home and how quickly you clean! Speed up the process and make it a group effort by assigning tasks to other household members!
Congratulations, you've completed the 7 Day Spring Cleaning Challenge! Now it's time to enjoy your tidy and organized home! Open a bottle of your favorite bubbly, kick your feet up, and appreciate your hard work and dedication! 🍾
APRIL 30, 2023
Local | A Few Reasons To Consider Moving To **Insert City, State*
**Insert City** is a city with a lot to offer. I can confidently say that I love living in **Insert City** and can't imagine living anywhere else! **Insert City** is home!
Here are a few reasons to consider moving to **Insert City, State**:
**List 4-6 reasons why you love living in your city: see examples below!**
1. Beautiful weather year-round
2. Affordable housing options
3. Excellent job opportunities
4. An endless amount of things to do
5. Vibrant nightlife
6. Historic culture
7. An award-winning food scene
8. Local sports teams
9. Kindhearted and genuine people
10. Affordable healthcare
Local friends, what's your favorite thing about living in **Insert City**? Share your answer in the comments below!