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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!
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.
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.
Starkville MS Real Estate Zillow
Starkville Real Estate Search Zillow: Know thy foe.
In the ever-evolving world of real estate, homebuyers and sellers are presented with a plethora of options for finding their dream property or connecting with potential buyers. Two popular approaches to house hunting include traditional local searches and the digital realm of platforms like Zillow. In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both methods to help you make an informed decision on how to best navigate the real estate landscape. So, Starkville, MS real estate or Zillow?
- Personalized Insights:
- Local real estate agents possess invaluable knowledge about neighborhoods, school districts, and community vibes that may not be readily available online.
- Establishing a direct connection with a local real estate expert allows for personalized insights and recommendations tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
- Hidden Gems:
- Not all available properties may be listed online. Some sellers prefer a more discreet approach and rely on local real estate agents to find qualified buyers without broadcasting their sale to the entire internet.
- Networking Opportunities:
- Local searches foster networking opportunities with real estate professionals and potential neighbors. These connections can provide valuable information about the local market, upcoming developments, and insider tips.
- Hands-On Experience:
- Touring neighborhoods and attending open houses offers a hands-on experience that helps you assess the true ambiance of an area and determine whether it aligns with your lifestyle.
Zillow and Online Platforms:
- Vast Inventory:
- Online platforms like Zillow provide access to a vast inventory of properties, making it easier to browse a wide range of options from the comfort of your home.
- Convenience:
- The convenience of online searches allows users to filter properties based on specific criteria, such as price range, number of bedrooms, and amenities, streamlining the house-hunting process.
- Data-Driven Decision Making:
- Zillow and similar platforms offer extensive data, including property history, market trends, and price comparisons. This information empowers users to make data-driven decisions during the buying or selling process.
- Quick Updates:
- Online listings are updated in real-time, ensuring that users have access to the latest information about available properties and market trends.
Considerations for a Balanced Approach:
- Local Expertise and Online Research:
- Combine the benefits of local expertise with the convenience of online research. Leverage the insights of local real estate agents while also exploring online platforms to widen your scope.
- Utilize Technology to Enhance, Not Replace:
- While online platforms provide a wealth of information, they should complement, not replace, the personal touch of local real estate professionals who can offer context and nuance.
- Balance Digital Efficiency with Personal Experience:
- Strive to strike a balance between the efficiency of digital platforms and the personal experience gained through on-the-ground exploration of neighborhoods and properties.
Ultimately, the choice between local Starkville real estate search Zillow and online platforms like Zillow depends on your individual preferences, priorities, and the unique aspects of the real estate market in your desired location. By combining the strengths of both approaches, you can maximize your chances of finding the perfect home or connecting with the right buyer in today’s dynamic real estate landscape. Engaging an agent from ERA Town & Campus Realty provides you the best of both worlds. If you are more hands-on in your approach, you can send them options you find online and ask for their opinions on the market price, area, proximity to important landmarks to you and much more.
How Much is my Home Worth?
Do you ask yourself frequently “How much is my home worth?” Knowing the value of your home is essential, whether you’re considering selling, refinancing, or just curious about its current market worth. If you wonder how much your home is worth, here are a few methods to help you find your answer:
- Online Valuation Tools: Numerous websites and platforms offer free online home valuation tools. Popular ones include ERA.com Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. These tools provide estimated home values based on publicly available data and other factors. While they can provide a rough estimate, they may not be entirely accurate and further research is always recommended.
- Hire a Professional Appraiser: Hiring a certified appraiser is one of the most accurate ways to determine your home’s value. Appraisers are trained to assess a property’s condition, features, and its comps in your area. They provide a detailed and unbiased valuation report. The cost of this service varies among appraisers, but typically ranges from $500-1000. Many banks require a certified appraisal for loans and refinances.
- Consult an ERA Real Estate Agent: ERA Real estate agents are familiar with local market conditions and can provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This report includes recent sales of similar properties in your area, helping you understand your home’s value. The best part of going this route, is there is no fee for this service. ERA Agents are always happy to give you an estimated value on your home. This opinion on price cannot be used for financing but can give you a good idea of what your home is worth.
- Online Real Estate Listings: Browse online real estate listings in your area to see the prices of similar homes. This can give you a rough idea of what similar properties are selling for.
- Attend Open Houses: Visiting open houses for properties similar to yours can help you gauge the condition and features of those homes and compare them to your own.
- Local Tax Assessment Office: You can contact your local tax assessment office to find out the assessed value of your property. Keep in mind that this value might not always align with market value. Mississippi does not require Sellers to disclose what a home sold for, so this is not always an accurate approach, but it can give you a good idea of approximate sales prices in your area.
- Home Improvement Appraisal: If you’ve made significant improvements to your home, such as adding a new bathroom or renovating the kitchen, consider getting an appraisal specifically for those improvements. This can add value to your property.
- Keep Up with the Local Market: Stay informed about the local real estate market by reading local news, attending real estate seminars, or following real estate trends in your area. The EASIEST way to do this is to subscribe to ERA’s Neighborhood News monthly newsletter. Once a month you will get sales data on what homes have sold for near you. Contact one of ERA Town & Campus Realty’s agents today and subscribe to keep up with this valuable information.
Remember that the value of your home can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including market conditions, economic factors, and changes to your property. For the most accurate assessment, consider a combination of these methods and consult with a professional appraiser or real estate agent.
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.
