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7 Ways to Combat Clutter in the New Year

January 6, 2015 By

The New Year is the time for a fresh start.It brings a feeling of starting over, and an opportunity to improve all areas of your life. In the New Year, take some time to complete projects you’ve been putting off for months. You can create an even better home for you and your family by decluttering and organizing your home.

Follow these tips for easy and quick ways to de-clutter your home.

1. Keep things at arms reach: Keep items you use daily somewhere where they can be easily reached, whether that’s in a basket, on a shelf, or in a cabinet. Store everything that is used sparingly on a higher shelf or in the garage or attic. It will be easier to find what you need when you need it.

2.  Add shelves: If your home is cluttered adding more furniture won’t help. Instead of adding a bookshelf or desk, add wall shelving.  You’ll have room for books, picture frames, paperwork, and even a television without cluttering your home with more furniture.

3. 12-12-12 Challenge: This challenge comes from BecomingMinimalist.com, and is a simple project to add to your routine. Clean and organize by choosing 12 items to throw away, 12 items to donate, and 12 to return to a proper place in your home.  This helps you organize, declutter, and give to a good cause all at the same time!

4. Garage storage: Make your garage your main storage area. Use old dressers and other furniture to store seasonal items and items you don’t use daily. Paint the furniture the same color to create a unified look.

5. Get rid of broken items: There’s no point in keeping items that are broken or unused, they’re just taking up precious space in your home. If you haven’t used it or gotten it fixed in the past six months, you probably never will. Throw it out or donate it to make room for something new.

6. Use things up: It’s a habit to save special items for special occasions, whether it’s fancy bath soap or an expensive spice. Stop saving these things for the right time, use them and enjoy them now. Use what you have before you buy something new to help keep clutter at bay.

7. Deal with one room at a time: Take it step by step. Organize and declutter one room at a time, makes it easier to focus on the task at hand. If you try to juggle too many rooms at once, it may never get done.

Go through these tasks every few months to help maintain an organized home. A decluttered home can give you and your family peace of mind – and room for something new.

Recommended Reading:

-Old to New: Tips for Rearranging Your Furniture

-Small Changes, Big Difference: 5 Low Cost Ways to Make Your Home Appear Larger

-How to Make a House a Home: Creating Memories

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7 Ways to Combat Clutter in the New Year

January 5, 2015 By

The New Year is the time for a fresh start. It brings a feeling of starting over, and an opportunity to improve all areas of your life. In the New Year, take some time to complete projects you’ve been putting off for months. You can create an even better home for you and your family by decluttering and organizing your home.

Follow these tips for easy and quick ways to declutter your home.

1. Keep things at arms reach: Keep items you use daily somewhere where they can be easily reached, whether that’s in a basket, on a shelf, or in a cabinet. Store everything that is used sparingly on a higher shelf or in the garage or attic. It will be easier to find what you need when you need it.

2.  Add shelves: If your home is cluttered adding more furniture won’t help. Instead of adding a bookshelf or desk, add wall shelving.  You’ll have room for books, picture frames, paperwork, and even a television without cluttering your home with more furniture.

3. 12-12-12 Challenge: This challenge comes from BecomingMinimalist.com, and is a simple project to add to your routine. Clean and organize by choosing 12 items to throw away, 12 items to donate, and 12 to return to a proper place in your home.  This helps you organize, declutter, and give to a good cause all at the same time!

4. Garage storage: Make your garage your main storage area. Use old dressers and other furniture to store seasonal items and items you don’t use daily. Paint the furniture the same color to create a unified look.

5. Get rid of broken items: There’s no point in keeping items that are broken or unused, they’re just taking up precious space in your home. If you haven’t used it or gotten it fixed in the past six months, you probably never will. Throw it out or donate it to make room for something new.

6. Use things up: It’s a habit to save special items for special occasions, whether it’s fancy bath soap or an expensive spice. Stop saving these things for the right time, use them and enjoy them now. Use what you have before you buy something new to help keep clutter at bay.

7. Deal with one room at a time: Take it step by step. Organize and declutter one room at a time, makes it easier to focus on the task at hand. If you try to juggle too many rooms at once, it may never get done.

Go through these tasks every few months to help maintain an organized home. A decluttered home can give you and your family peace of mind – and room for something new.

Recommended Reading:

-Old to New: Tips for Rearranging Your Furniture

-Small Changes, Big Difference: 5 Low Cost Ways to Make Your Home Appear Larger

-How to Make a House a Home: Creating Memories

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5 News Year’s Resolutions for Real Estate Agents

January 2, 2015 By

Happy New Year! You make New Year’s resolutions for your personal life, so why not make them for your professional life as well. If you’ve been meaning to improve on a certain area, or want to excel in a certain niche, the New Year is the perfect time to start. Focus on these five goals and, if you’re feeling extra ambitious, add more.

1. Tackle social media: If you aren’t very tech savvy, now is the time to develop your skills. Social media will help boost business. In fact, 91% of REALTORS® currently use at least one form of social media. Our best practices for Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest can give you the information you need to promote generating leads from social media.

2. Develop goals and action items: Write out a list of goals and tangible action items for 2015. For example, your overarching goal may be to generate a certain number of leads a month, or grow your social media following by 100 followers month over month. Your action items may be to go to at least three networking events a month or start implementing social media advertising on your various social media channels. Regardless of your specific goals, this exercise will help you identify and keep track of your accomplishments throughout the year.

3. Localize business: Inman.com reported that the key to standing out from your competition is to become an “expert” in one particular location. This tactic can help improve business both online and offline; targeting a specific geographic area can push you to the top of Google searches, instantly increasing business. Focus on your area of expertise this year and you may see results.

4. Become a thought leader: People want to work with you because they trust your expertise and values. One way to generate trust is to show that you are a thought leader in your field. Write guest posts on blogs, get featured in media publications, and even start your own blog.

5. Network: Real estate is a business where referrals and testimonials matter. You are helping people with an important milestone – and they want to work with someone they can confide in. Attend networking events and keep in touch with friends, family, and acquaintances because you never know who will help you generate your next lead.

Use these goals to help improve your business in 2015. Good luck!

Recommended Reading:

-5 Ways to Reconnect this Holiday Season

-Email Etiquette for Real Estate Agents

-5 Essential Networking Tips for Real Estate Agents

 

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How to Help Baby Boomers Find a Home

December 24, 2014 By

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, there are 76.4 million baby boomers. This statistic has an interesting implication for the real estate market. Many baby boomers will be in the market to downsize from the home where they raised their family to a smaller house or apartment. Here are a few tips for helping baby boomers find the right home for the next chapter of their lives.

1. Friends and Family: Living in a close proximity to friends and family will increase the likelihood that baby boomers will have companionship and someone to care for them should the need arise. Plus, who wants to watch their grandchild’s first steps over video chat.

2. Accessibility: As people age, walking up stairs may become burdensome or impossible. Look for houses or apartments with ramps, stair lifts, or elevators. Similarly, make sure that all the housing you look at is wheelchair accessible.

3. Storage: Downsizing is an emotional process for many reasons — including the fear of losing the memories attached to the home and the belongings it contains. Almost every parent has a box of notes, art, cards, macaroni necklaces, and other memorabilia from their kids and grandkids. Recommend that they open a storage unit so that they can keep things with sentimental value even after they move.

4. Neighborhood: Ideally the neighborhood will have classes and activities for baby boomers. It will also be good to look for neighborhoods with good hospitals and doctor’s nearby. Bonus points if there is a golf course close!

Whether you are an agent or a friend or family member, these tips will help you make a baby boomer’s transition easier.

Recommended Reading:

-Snow Safety for the Home
-Home Safety Tips for the Elderly
-On the Road Again: The Ultimate Moving Checklist

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Home for the Holidays: Your Favorite Holiday Movie Homes Come to Life

December 22, 2014 By

Christmas movies are one of the best things about the holiday season. No matter who you are, you have a favorite holiday movie. There’s a movie for every child, every adult, every mood, and every personality. Holiday movies have a way of getting you in the Christmas spirit faster than you can say, “Santa, I know him!”

Whether you’re Home Alone or surrounded by family for The Holiday, these homes will surely make you nostalgic for your favorite movie.

1. This home is reminiscent of the McCallister residence; it’s even located in the same town! We’re sure it comes with its own blueprint plan to ward off intruders, but hopefully you won’t need it. Make sure you have all your belongings (and children) before leaving on any holiday vacations.

2. The Griswolds could live here. With a light show this hefty, make sure you don’t pull a Clark and have the lights fail on you. If you love these over-the-top decorations, then you may need a “Jelly of the Month” club membership to get you through the holidays.

3. It may not be as drafty or as old as the Bailey residence, but this home will surely leave you thinking that It’s a Wonderful Life. There is space to host the best Christmas dinner ever and there’s even a guest room for Clarence. It may be difficult to lasso the moon, but the backyard has enough space to practice.

4. Similar to little Susan’s dream home, this precious house is bound to bring miracles (even if it’s not located on 34th Street). Santa will have no problem finding this home on Christmas night. He made it all possible, after all!

5. Is that a leg lamp we see in the window? No, probably not, but this home looks like it could tell A Christmas Story. It’s not a good idea to stick your tongue to any light posts outside, but throw on your bunny pajamas and try not to shoot your eye out on Christmas morning.

Watching your favorite Christmas movies can get you and your family into the holiday spirit! These homes are a perfect reminder of why you adore curling up by a fire and tuning on these timeless films.

 

Recommended Reading:

-Let the Games Begin: Which District Should You Live In

-Carrie, Seinfeld, and Friends: NYC Apartments Straight From the Screen

-What’s Your Favorite Scary Movie? 10 Real Houses Where Your Favorite Scary Movie May Have Occurred

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How to Survive the Holidays With Your Family

December 18, 2014 By

The holiday season is about being grateful, giving back, and spending a copious amount of time with your family. Sometimes being around your family so much can go to your head. If you have a dysfunctional family filled with big personalities, it can be treacherous at times. Here are some tips to help you get through the holidays with your family.

1. Smile and nod: The best way to avoid probing questions and unsolicited advice is to agree. Make like a bobble head doll and smile and nod.

2. Stay in the kitchen: Hide in the kitchen. No one will come in because that means they’d have to help with setting the table or washing dishes.

3. Overpowering Christmas music: When things start to get heated at the dinner table take to the radio to blast “All I Want for Christmas is You” at a ridiculous volume. Tune out the fighting. Everyone will thank you – and hopefully start singing along.

4. The kids: Pull up a chair at the kid’s table. They’ll keep you entertained, and they don’t have strong opinions on politics or your life. They probably won’t ask you why you aren’t married yet or whether or not you are dating someone. Kids always save the day, plus they have coloring books and would rather discuss Play-doh than Plato.

5. Read a book: Get lost in a good book. There are so many good reads to help you escape the drama and make your family seem normal. For example, check out Where’d You Go, Bernadette or Beautiful Ruins.

Good luck.

 

Recommended Reading:

-8 Things You May Have Thought When Your In-Laws Stayed Over

-5 Stages of Having Your Kids Home From College

-How to Decorate Your Home for the Holidays

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Deck the Halls: 10 Things to Do Leading Up to Christmas

December 17, 2014 By

Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year. You have to buy and wrap presents, decorate the tree, cook, bake, and more. Preparing your home for Christmas may seem stressful but it doesn’t have to be. Here are small things that you can do every day leading up to Christmas. Your home can be more festive in no time.

1. Create a Christmas card display: Arrange the Christmas cards you’ve received over the past few weeks on a mantel or in a nice Christmas wreath. This adds a sentimental value to the holiday and shows your family and friends that you appreciate them.

2. Plan Christmas menu: Knowing exactly what you’re cooking makes grocery shopping faster. Plus you won’t have to run out because you forgot milk…again.

3. Put out smaller decorations: There is no such thing as too many Christmas decorations. If your tree is up and the outside of your home is decked out, adding small touches inside the home is the next step. Hang wreaths, display nutcrackers, snow globes, and hang the stockings — this added decor brings the Christmas season full circle.

4. Display presents under the tree: As you are finished wrapping presents for your family and Christmas guests, display them under the tree. You’ll remember where you put the gifts and you’ll get excited every time you see them under the tree. Note to Self: Stop hiding gifts and forgetting where they’re hidden.

5. Prepare for guests: If you have family staying over during the holidays, prepare in advance. There’s no need to run around on Christmas trying to cook, clean, and get things together for guests. A few days prior to the holiday, put out extra towels, bedding, and anything else your guests may need. If you have enough time, use these tips to set up a great guest room.

6. Bake, bake, bake: A night or two before Christmas, get all your baking done. It’s a fun activity to do with your family and you’ll take care of something else on your to-do list.

7. Deep clean your home: A clean home is a happy home, especially during the holidays. Clean your home a few days before Christmas. A mess may ensue during the holiday but at least the meticulous cleaning job is done.

8. Set the table: Don’t set your table in a hurry. Take some time to make it beautiful. Set up a runner, put out candles, and add a festive centerpiece.

9. Set out seating: If your home doesn’t have the capacity to hold all your guests, make arrangements in advance. Borrow or rent extra tables and chairs so there is room for everyone and everything.

10. Burn candles: There is nothing like the fresh scent of a Christmas candle. Light a few before your guests arrive to help make your home look and smell beautiful.

If you do one small thing each day before Christmas, your home will be prepared for the actual day. As a host, you will be able to enjoy the holiday more knowing everything is taken care of.

 

Recommended Reading:

-How to Decorate Your Home for the Holidays

-5 Ways to Reconnect this Holiday Season

-Winter is Coming: How to Prep Your Home for Winter

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If Igloos Had Real Estate Listings

December 15, 2014 By

The latest trend in real estate may be a little chilling to some people. These homes are the coolest thing on the market right now, and the best part is that there’s no need to worry about shoveling snow. Igloo homes are the next big thing.

Here are some igloo homes for every cool family:

1. This igloo comes complete with central AC and you’ll decrease your electrical bill because there is no need for a fridge.

2. You won’t have to ask your neighbor for ice cubes when you live in this abode. You may, however, have to ask for extra blankets.

3. Wouldn’t it be great to never have to worry about preparing for a blizzard? This igloo mansion allows for that luxury, along with other amenities including a gym where you’ll never sweat, the largest freezer known to man, and a lower energy bill.

4. Winterizing your home is no longer an issue in this ice palace. This home comes complete with an ice throne, a frozen pool (aka skating rink), and an icicle garden. There is also a gorgeous faux fireplace.

5. Who needs a treehouse when you have a snowy hideaway in your backyard. This little igloo is great for escaping when you need a break from all the holiday cheer. Keep a stash of ice cream and drinks along with a sweatshirt or two.

When you buy one of these homes you’ll automatically be the coolest family on the block.

Recommended Reading:

-Carrie, Seinfeld, and Friends: NYC Apartments Straight from the Screen

-How to Turn Your House Into the Ultimate Haunted House

-8 Things You May Have Thought When Your In-Laws Stayed Over

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At Home Magazine: How to Install Flooring

December 12, 2014 By

Laminated planks offer the look of wood or stone, but they provide greater durability and convenience. Looking to make a few renovations this winter? You can install flooring using these simple steps.

1. Allow flooring to acclimate to the room. It should sit for at least 48 hours prior to installation in order to contract or expand in relation to room’s temperature.

2. Remove existing base molding and flooring. Save molding to reinstall at the end of the project.

3. Install foam underlayment, ensuring the surface is clear of staples and nails from old flooring.

4. Plan your layout.

5. Measure and cut your first piece.

6. Install the first row with the tongue side facing the wall, cutting the tongue edge off of these planks.

7. Connect planks to each other using the tongue and groove.

8. Allow for expansion; leave a one-quarter-inch gap between the planks and the wall.

9. Cut the last plank to length.

10. Install additional rows, allowing at least 12 inches between the seams of adjoining rows.

11. Install the last row.

12. Cut around door casings using a jamb saw.

13. Reinstall base moldings. Install shoe moldings over expansion joints, caulking around the perimeter before installing if in a bathroom. Use transition strips to connect the laminate floor to adjoining surfaces, such as carpet.

Voila! Enjoy your new floor (and the fact that you saved money by doing it yourself)

Recommended Reading:

-Old to New: Tips for Rearranging Your Furniture

-6 Inexpensive Remodeling Ideas for Your Home

-Ask Our Expert: Budget Friendly Bathroom Update

-Done in One Hour: How to Install a Faucet

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5 Ways to Reconnect this Holiday Season

December 8, 2014 By

As a real estate agent, staying in touch with past clients is an essential part of building your business. The holidays are a great time to send your greetings and subtly remind clients that you’re there for their real estate needs.

Here are some unique ways to reconnect this holiday season:

1. Send an email: This is the easiest way to get a past client’s attention. Sending a thoughtful message or an e-card is a good way to let someone know that you’re thinking of them. Personalize it by asking questions such as them how they’re enjoying their home and neighborhood. Although it’s better to write individual emails, it is possible to send a message to multiple clients at once (just remember to BCC.)

2. Greeting cards: If you have a client’s address, take the more traditional route and send them a holiday card. They will appreciate the personal approach and they’ll be more likely to remember you when they see your card displayed in their home.

3. Small, thoughtful gifts: Whether it’s a tin of cookies, a flower arrangement, or a homemade gift, something small goes a long way. You can send these small gifts in the mail, or even give them to current clients at an open house. Clients will always remember the real estate agent who came to their showing with a holiday gift.

4. Set up coffee dates: If you had a really great client experience with someone in the past, call them to arrange to catch up over coffee or lunch. Face-to-face contact is great way to stay in touch and show that you truly care about the relationship.

5. Host a holiday party: To go above and beyond during the holiday season, host a small get together at your office or home. Invite past, present, and future clients, giving you the chance to work the room. This will help you reconnect with people you’ve once worked with, while also giving you the opportunity to promote yourself to future clients.

As a professional, you should be following up and connecting with clients 365 days a year, but the holidays are a great way to get unique with your networking.

Recommended Reading:

-5 Essential Networking Tips for Real Estate Agents

-Tech Talk: 5 Apps for Real Estate Agents

-6 Simple SEO Tips for Real Estate Agents

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