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How to maximize your small space
Do you have small spaces in your home and have been wondering how to decorate or design it to get the most? There are many tips and tricks on how you can maximize your small space. Implementing some of these specific design techniques can help you get the most out of each room.
Furniture
Furniture with storage space
- This is a great two-for-one!
- Buy something that you will use, but that will also help you organize some of the items that also may clutter up that room
Embrace curves
- Rounded or curved edges create a organic comfortable feel
Utilize a kitchen corner
- Consider using a neglected corner, not only for seating but also use seating with hidden storage to maximize that space to store all of those bigger, less used kitchen items
Choose smaller furniture
- Even though you might want a larger dining room table…would a smaller round one suffice?
- Lean away from oversized furniture
Float Furniture
- moving furniture away from the walls can make a room feel larger
- it gives a sense of depth and space
Keep the view clear
- anything that stops the eye from moving around a room can make a room feel limited
- try tables with a transparent surface and chairs that have an open or partially open back
Install shelving
- Maximize vertical space to display items
Remove extra seating
- Extra seating is nice when you have company…but the rest of the time can just be in the way. Try convertible furniture.
Design
Create the illusion of more space
- Add mirrors! Specifically, by adding them across from a window to reflect light.
- If the room is dark, incorporate more bright light to open the room up.
- Use lines to your benefit. Floor and wall coverings with lines/stripes to make the space feel more open
Use Symmetry
- Makes a space feel tidier
- Balance is a relaxing concept for our brains
Limit your color pallete
- Select a few shades and stick to them
Create Zones or small-space barriers
- Use area rugs and shelving to break up larger rooms into
- Folding screens, and curtains can all act as room dividers to create privacy or define zones
Hang your clothes vs folding them
- Utilize vertical space
- Limits the need for bulky furniture
Let small rooms breathe
- a small amount of well-chosen and well-placed accessories is all you need
- avoid a cluttered look
These are some great ideas of how to use furniture and design techniques as to how to maximize a small space. We hope you try some and notice a difference!
The Benefits of Practicing Gratitude
The benefits of practicing gratitude in your daily life can have a significant impact on your well-being and mindset.
Even if there is nothing significant happening in your life today, it IS a new day. One that you can participate in what ever way you are able. Sometimes expressing gratitude simply for a new day is enough to change your attitude and perspective. Gratitude, however, is more than just saying “thank you.” Practicing gratitude is appreciating the goodness in your daily life no matter how big or small. There is always something to be thankful for even if some days you really must look for it. The benefits of practicing gratitude in your regular routine, can provide you with physical, mental, and emotional gains. It is a powerful tool for helping us balance out negative thought patterns and can strengthen relationships by recognizing and valuing the good in others.
“This is a wonderful day. I have never seen this one before.” -Maya Angelou
There are some exercises you can try to incorporate gratitude into your daily life. Try some of these and hopefully you’ll find one that works for you.
- Gratitude Countdown
- Rapidly list 10 things you are grateful for. This is also something you can do with a partner or solo.
- 24 hour reflection
- take time to scan your thoughts and say three things out loud that happened in the last day that your are thankful for.
- Gratitude Journal
- In a notebook, jot down something you are thankful for each day
- Gratitude Letter
- Sent a letter, email, text, or call someone that has significantly impacted your life and express that to them in words.
- Walk
- Take a walk and intentionally notice and appreciate the world around you by using your senses.
- Meditation
- Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Then begin to shift your thinking to things you are grateful for and feel the warmth and joy that brings to you.
- Gratitude Jar
- Write things you are grateful for down on a slip of paper and drop into a jar. Whenever your feeling low or need a pick-me-up, read one of your entries and rediscover that wonderful feeing.
Give some of these practices a try and notice the shift in your mind and attitude. If you practice something daily, it then becomes a habit. This is a healthy and beneficial habit that will pay you back over and over.
Outdoor Design Trends
Outdoor Design Trends
These outdoor design trends are creative, inventive, and natrual ways to update your outdoor space. The current outdoor design trends are leaning toward more useful, tranquil, and functional. Impletmenting some of these ideas into your space can help make your outdoor space a true extension of your home.
Layers of lighting
Using lights on different levels adds depth and interest to your outdoor design. Try adding lights as accents, using different intensities, or even a layered effect. Implementing a few different layers can make your yard and garden a true extension of your home.
Chill Vibes
Tranquility is where it’s at. Leaning toward a mellow feel with a relaxed, playful setting versus a high-contrast vibe with edgy landscape. You can achieve this with hanging chairs, water features, wind chimes, and strings of lights draped casually through the trees.
Encourage outdoor time for kids
There are many mental and physical benefits of being outdoors. Try expanding your outdoor space to be more kid-centric by making pathways specifically for them to run through, adding ropes to climb, a playhouse, or even creating a dry river bed with river rocks and plants explore.
Nurturing and Natural Landscaping
Try garden designs with healthy edibles and herbs and plants that have healing properties. Also try incorporating, low-water landscapes incorporating native plants, and pollinators. Planting native plants also coincides with developing a conscious use of water.
A few other ideas to try are:
- Create a meandering pathway
- Use curvy outdoor furniture
- Incorporate shapeable plants
- Plant easy care evergreens
- Have an outdoor nooks
- Use vacation inspired decor
- Accent with organic textures.
With all that being said, one of the most important things to remember is just to simply create and outdoor space that is designed by incorporating personality infused details. Get inspiration from things you’ve gathered along the way. Look at the color schemes, patterns, and textures. Use these outdoor design trends as inspiration for your own personal spin to truely make your own. Building this space for your family’s enjoyment ultimately makes it a peaceful and enjoyable extension of your home that you can use and enjoy for many years to come.
If you are rocking a wonderful outdoor space, tag our social media, we’d love to see it and get inspired!
Preparing your home for Summer
Preparing your home for summer is a great habit to get in to doing each year. Keeping up with maintenance tasks around your home is the perfect way to ensure that your investment stays in tip-top shape! Also, there is some fun things to prepare for too…such as prepping your garden and stocking up on summer essentials!
Getting your home ready for summer involves both practical and enjoyable tasks. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re prepared:
- Air Conditioning Maintenance: Have your air conditioning system serviced to ensure it’s working efficiently during the hot months.
- Check for Drafts: Seal any gaps or cracks around windows and doors to keep cool air in and hot air out.
- Clean or Replace Filters: Clean or replace air filters in your HVAC system to improve air quality and efficiency.
- Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure these devices are in working order to keep your home safe.
- Inspect and Clean Gutters: Remove debris to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage during summer storms.
- Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses: Inspect for leaks and make any necessary repairs before watering your lawn and garden.
- Inspect and Clean Outdoor Furniture: Clean outdoor furniture and check for any damage that needs repair or replacement.
- Prepare Your Garden: Start planting summer flowers and vegetables, and ensure your garden is properly mulched and watered.
- Pest Control: Take preventive measures to keep insects and pests at bay, such as sealing cracks and using natural repellents.
- Outdoor Lighting: Check outdoor lighting fixtures and replace any bulbs that are burnt out. Consider adding solar-powered lights for energy efficiency.
- Inspect Your Roof: Check for any loose or damaged shingles and make repairs to prevent leaks during summer rains.
- Clean Windows and Screens: Clean windows and screens to let in more natural light and fresh air.
- Stock Up on Summer Essentials: Ensure you have sunscreen, insect repellent, and any other summer necessities on hand.
- Prepare Outdoor Entertainment Areas: Clean and arrange outdoor entertainment areas such as patios, decks, and BBQ grills for summer gatherings.
- Plan Energy-Saving Strategies: Consider using ceiling fans, installing window coverings to block out heat, and using programmable thermostats to save on energy costs.
By completing these tasks and preparing your home for summer, you’ll be ready to enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable summer at home. If you need any suggestions for maintenance or technicians, or if you are ready to prep your home to sell this summer, let us know, we’d be glad to help.
Spring is a great time to sell your home! Here’s why.
Why is spring a great time to sell?
Being outside is more appealing.
When spring time comes around, it often feels like we are getting a new start. It also can help pull some of us out of the ol winter blues. The weather is getting warmer, the grass is getting greener, flowers are blooming, and people tend to get out and about more. Another plus is that your marketing photos will be more colorful and alive than those drab winter ones. If you are considering selling your home in the Spring, it can be quite exciting to think of selling your home, finding a new one, and possibly settling in by Fall.
The timing.
Spring is a great time to sell your home because of landscaping options, more daylight hours, tax returns, timing of school schedules, market activity, and inventory. Spring brings milder weather and more daylight, which, in turn, makes it more encouraging for people to go out and explore properties. Clear blue skies and everything starting to come alive, can make your property look more appealing…boosting that curb appeal. The timing with school is huge, especially in a college town. Families with children typically prefer to move while schools are out as that is one less thing to have to worry about and work around. New college students and incoming Faculty is also a big push in our market. Another reason Spring is a good time to sell your home is that many people receive their tax refunds, thus proving them with extra funds for a down payment or closing costs.
Not sure how to get started?
Please note that of all of the tips above, this one is very important and highly recommended; find yourself a skilled and knowledgeable agent. (We can help with that!) Having a Realtor® on your side helps with the following:
- Minimizes the stress involved with paperwork and legalities involved
- making sure your best interests are covered
- schedule showings
- negotiation (huge!)
- They know how to price your home correctly
- price it right the first time
- stay competitive
- They know their market
- Advises on staging, curb appeal, and decluttering
- Provide recommendations for maintenance workers and contractors
- will put your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
The real estate market tends to pick up in the spring with more listings and buyers entering the market. That increase in activity can create a sense of urgency, leading to faster sales and potentially better offers for the sellers. This is why spring is a great time to sell your home.
Reasons you should host an Open House
~Reasons you should host an Open House~
One might ask, are open houses even beneficial? The short and simple answer to this question is, yes! As the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words…however, seeing your potential future home in person is unparallelled. To dive in a little deeper, there are several reasons why you should host an open house and the reasons they are beneficial.
- Exposure
- Open houses provide an opportunity for a large number of potential buyers to view the property at once.
- This exposure can increase the chances of finding a suitable buyer quickly.
- Feedback
- Open houses allow sellers to gather feedback from visitors about the property.
- This feedback can be valuable in understanding what aspects of the property are appealing and what might need improvement.
- Serious Buyers
- While some visitors may be casual browsers, open houses often attract serious buyers who are actively looking for a property.
- This can lead to more promising leads and potentially faster sales.
- Networking
- Open houses can be an opportunity for real estate agents to network with potential buyers and other agents.
- This networking can lead to future collaborations and referrals.
- Competitive Advantage
- Hosting an open house can give a property a competitive advantage in the market.
- It signals to potential buyers that the seller is motivated and proactive about selling the property.
- Convenience
- Open houses provide a convenient way for buyers to view multiple properties in a short amount of time.
- This can be especially beneficial for out-of-town buyers or those with busy schedules.
- Marketing Opportunity
- Open houses serve as a marketing opportunity for the property.
- They can be advertised through various channels, attracting attention from a wider audience and potentially driving up interest in the property.
A few tips for success when showcasing a property with an open house:
- Curb appeal
- Ensure a well-maintained exterior
- Declutter
- Remove personal items to allow buyers to visualize the space
- Deep Clean
- Pay attention to details for a sparking home, such as baseboards and fan blades
- Natural light
- Open curtains for a bright, inviting atmosphere
- Hospitatily
- Open refreshments and information to keep visitors engaged.
- People also love bite sized cookies and glossy flyers they can take with them to refer back.
Implementing these strategies have helped in previous transactions to attract potential buyers and facilitate a faster sale. Overall, while open houses may not always result in an immediate sale, they can be a valuable tool in the marketing and selling process of a property.
What is Homestead Exemption?
What is Homestead Exemption?
The Mississippi Tax Commission performs two functions in reference to homestead exemption. The first function is to determine the eligibility of taxpayers who wish to obtain an exemption from ad valorem property taxes. The second function is to reimburse the taxing unit who suffers a tax loss because of its exemption. Homestead Exemption is a privilege offered to eligible taxpayers by the State of Mississippi. It is very important to remember that the exemption is not granted automatically. You must file an application and each taxpayer must qualify for the exemption. You have from January 2nd – April 1st to file your homestead tax exemption. Below are details of how to qualify and what you’ll need to provide when filing. Should you have further questions about any of these details, you can refer to the Homestead Exemption FAQ page found on the ms.gov Department of Revenue website.
In Mississippi, you are elegible to file your Homestead Tax Exemption in 2024 IF any of the following changes were made in 2023:
- You bought property and it is your primary home
- If you sold part of your homestead property
- If you bought more acres and want to add it to the existing homestead
- If you married or divorced, or became widowed
- If you became disabled
- If you celebrated your 65th birthday
There are things you are going to want to have with you when you go to make this process as easy as it can be.
- Recorded deed filed in 2023
- Closing Disclosure
- Social Security numbers for you (and spouse, if applicable)
- Tag numbers of all privately owned vehicles in your name
- If you are 65 or older, Driver’s License or Birth Certificate
- If disabled: TPQY form from SS Administration stating:
- your name and SS number
- Entitlement or eligibility date
The process of filing your Homestead Tax Exemption is very simple. However, if you need any assistance, call your ERA agent!
Deep clean in Spring
~Deep clean in Spring~
Spring is the perfect time to deep clean! Not only is spring cleaning a great way to reset, but additionally, this yearly chore gets rid of the previous year’s accumulated dust, dander, and clutter before allergy season reaches full swing. If Martha Stuart suggest to deep clean in Spring…then I think we should at least try it! 😉
~Ways to tackle the job of spring cleaning~
Cleaning your home from top to bottom takes a lot of effort, but you can make the project more manageable by having your supplies ready and a plan of attack in mind. You can take it room by room of your choice, go from the attic to the basement, or start outdoors and wind your way inside. It is easy to get overwhelmed, so take your time, create a realistic schedule, and focus on one task at a time. You’ll need more than one day if you decide to deep clean your living area and also add in more involved projects, such as the attic, garage, and organizing closets. It will take time, patience, and errort, but is definately worth it! Your mind, body, and soul will thank you when the job is completed.
~Spring cleaning supplies~
- Bucket
- Mop
- Vacuum
- Duster
- Microfiber cloths
- Sponges
- Reuseable spray bottle
- All-purpose cleaner
- White distilled vinegar
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
~Tasks you’ll want to accomplish~
- Declutter: Go through belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard.
- Dust: Wiping down surfaces, furniture, and fixtures to remove accumulated dust.
- Vacuum and mop floors: Clean carpets, rugs, and hard floors to remove dirt and grime.
- Wash windows: Clean windows inside and out to remove dirt and streaks.
- Clean appliances: Wipe down kitchen appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, and microwave, and cleaning filters and vents.
- Organize closets and storage spaces: Rearrange items, folding clothes, and organize belongings to maximize space and accessibility.
- Clean bedding and linens: Wash sheets, pillowcases, towels, and other linens to freshen them up.
- Disinfect surfaces: Use disinfectants to clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
- Clean outdoor spaces: Sweep patios, decks, and porches, and tidy up the yard or garden area.
- Inspect for repairs: Check for any damage or issues that need to be addressed, such as leaks, cracks, or broken fixtures.
~Spring is a great time to sell your home~
Spring also may be the perfect time for you to sell your home and get a fresh start in a new home locally or even in a total new area! Along with starting something new in your life, your home will also photograph beautifully after being freshly cleaned and organized. If you need more advice on how to get your home ready to sell this season, give one of our expert Realtors® a call!
Spring cleaning is not only about physical cleanliness but can also have wonderful psychological benefits, such as reducing stress and creating a sense of renewal and accomplishment. The idea of starting fresh as nature begins to bloom and flourish in the spring season just feels right. Spring cleaning truely is good for the mind, body, and soul.
Reasons you should invest in Starkville, MS real estate
Considering our status as a college town with a growing population and diverse economy, there are many reasons you should invest in Starkville, MS real estate. It can be a very promising opportunity, and here are some factors to consider:
- Local Economy: Starkville is home to Mississippi State University, which serves as a significant economic driver for the area. Consider the stability and growth potential of industries such as education, healthcare, technology, and agriculture, which contribute to the local economy.
- Rental Demand: There is a consistent demand for rental properties in Starkville due to the large student population attending Mississippi State University. When considering the reasons to invest in Starkville, MS real estate, analyze the vacancy rates, rental yields, and rental trends in different neighborhoods to identify areas with strong rental demand and potential for rental income.
- Property Types: Starkville offers a variety of property types for investment. These include single-family homes, multi-family properties, student housing, and commercial real estate. Our knowledgeable agents will help you evaluate the pros and cons of each property type based on your investment goals, budget, and risk tolerance.
- Location: Location plays a crucial role in real estate investment success. Research different neighborhoods in Starkville to identify areas with desirable amenities, low crime rates, good school districts, and potential for appreciation. Proximity to Mississippi State University can also influence property values and rental demand.
- Market Trends: Stay informed about market trends, including home prices, inventory levels, and sales activity in Starkville. Monitor changes in the real estate market and economic indicators to identify emerging opportunities and potential risks. We post quarterly market updates on our social media to share this information on Starkville and including all 7 counties in the Golden Triangle region.
- Financial Considerations: Calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) for properties in Starkville by analyzing rental income, operating expenses, financing options, and expected appreciation. Consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to assess the financial feasibility of your investment strategy.
- Property Management: Determine whether you’ll manage the property yourself or hire ERA Town & Campus Realty as your potential property managers. Consider the responsibilities involved in property management, such as tenant screening, maintenance, rent collection, and legal compliance.
- Legal and Regulatory Factors: Familiarize yourself with local laws, zoning regulations, landlord-tenant laws, and tax implications related to real estate investment in Starkville. Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements to avoid potential liabilities and penalties.
Before making any investment decisions, conduct thorough research, consult with your local ERA real estate professionals who are experts with the Starkville market. By taking a strategic approach and staying informed, you can make informed investment decisions and potentially achieve long-term success when you’ve found the perfect reasons to invest in Starkville, MS real estate market.
Buying Real Estate – Hidden perks
Buying real estate can offer several potential benefits, depending on your individual circumstances and investment goals. Many people focus in on the short-term benefit of owning property, but there are several hidden perks to being a property owner as well. Here are some of the key advantages of investing in real estate:
- Appreciation: Real estate has historically appreciated in value over time. While there are no guarantees, owning property can potentially provide you with long-term capital appreciation, allowing your investment to grow in value.
- Rental Income: If you buy a property with the intention of renting it out, you can generate a steady stream of rental income. This can help cover the property’s expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance costs, and more.
- Tax Benefits: Real estate investors can often benefit from various tax advantages, such as mortgage interest deductions, property tax deductions, depreciation allowances, and more. Consult a tax professional to fully understand these potential benefits.
- Portfolio Diversification: Real estate can be a valuable addition to a diversified investment portfolio. It doesn’t always move in tandem with the stock market, so it can help spread risk and reduce overall portfolio volatility.
- Leverage: Real estate allows you to use leverage by borrowing money to purchase properties. This means you can control a more substantial asset with a relatively small amount of your own money. If the property appreciates, your return on investment can be amplified.
- Hedge Against Inflation: Real estate can be a hedge against inflation because property values and rental income often rise with inflation. This can help protect the purchasing power of your investments over time.
- Forced Savings: Owning real estate can encourage disciplined savings as you pay down your mortgage. Each mortgage payment you make builds equity, which is essentially a form of savings.
- Control: Real estate investment provides you with a level of control over your investment that you may not have with other assets. You can make decisions about property management, renovations, and more.
- Passive Income: If you hire a property management company to handle the day-to-day responsibilities of property ownership, real estate can provide a source of passive income, requiring less active involvement on your part.
- Potential for Business Opportunities: Real estate investments can lead to various business opportunities, such as flipping properties, developing land, or running a short-term rental business.
It’s important to note that real estate investments also come with risks and challenges, including property management issues, market fluctuations, and liquidity concerns. Therefore, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research, assess your financial situation, and consider your investment goals and risk tolerance before buying real estate. Contacting a knowledgeable local REALTOR to be an advocate for you is a crucial step in the process. Additionally, seeking advice from financial professionals, real estate experts, and tax advisors can help you make informed decisions about real estate investments.
