A poorly planned kitchen is the worst thing that can happen in your home. For instance, squeaky cabinets and dull paint may take away the joy of cooking. It's easy to feel stuck in the kitchen you've been given because the floor plan and room layout are such firm things.

But you have choices, even if you don't have the money or time to make significant improvements. You can make even the most awful kitchen plans feel useful and, dare we say it, stylish. The trick: just talk to the pros.

The following is a list of the layouts that interior designers consider to be the most challenging to deal with, along with numerous suggestions on how you should layout a kitchen.

5 Worst Reasons Kitchen Layouts And How To Fix It

1. Galley Kitchens With Dead Ends

Our trusted designers say that the small kitchen, especially its dead-end version, is one of the worst design choices for a kitchen.

Although they're popular, they rank so low for several reasons. According to Jodi Peterman, the owner and CEO of Elizabeth Erin Designs, "When the fridge or stove is trapped at the end of a narrow run, you’re constantly doubling back and bumping into people." It slows down traffic and makes preparing meals feel like a mess.

Sometimes, both ends of a galley kitchen are open, making it feel less closed off. Another expert at Planner 5D based in New York, they can save room in smaller homes, but she also thinks they can make it harder to move around in your home.

The Workaround

If you have a galley kitchen, the most important thing is to make the room look bigger, even if you can't move things around. To make it look more spacious, Peterman says: "Keep counters as clear as possible, add wall-mounted storage to free up space, and swap heavy cabinet doors for open shelving to give the illusion of breathing room."

You can do more things if you have more freedom with building and changes. It's also possible to make the kitchen move better by opening up one side or adding pull-out shelves, and using light colors and mirrors will make the room look bigger.

2. Kitchens With Just One Wall

One-wall kitchens are another type that causes more problems than it solves. The layout is pretty straightforward, which usually consists of just one wall of cabinets and tables, which makes it harder to work and store things.

We all have a reason for the way their kitchen looks. Single-wall choices are less expensive, easier for do-it-yourselfers to build, and can fit in smaller spaces. But they are hard to do because of problems with organization and usefulness.

The Workaround

A countertop and a set of shelves are usually on the same wall. As a result, you'll need to make better use of the things you have and combine storage options.

Moszczynski suggests maximizing vertical storage with tall cabinets and using a mobile island for extra prep space.

If you have lower cabinets, consider installing open shelving to create more room for plates, cups, and cookware. Although this doesn't change the kitchen's shape, it adds much-needed storage.

Tall cabinets and a mobile bench can help you get more prep space, according to Moszczynski. Putting in open shelves could help you get more plates, cups, and cooking tools if your cabinets are low. As long as this doesn't change the shape of the kitchen, it will be even better.

corner kitchen

3. Corner Kitchens

Kitchens almost always have corners. However, certain kitchens have those sneaky places that aren't meant to be used.

Peterman claims: "These awkward diagonal corners have wasted cabinets that no one can reach into without feeling like they’re playing Twister.

The Workaround

Avoiding this type of kitchen may be the best solution. Instead of trying to fix these cabinets, use simpler kitchen organization alternatives.

Rather than stuffing corners, Peterman suggests using them as showcase shelves or decorating them with art or home decor. Invest in sophisticated pull-out organizers elsewhere to avoid impossible cabinet spaces.

4. Oversized Islands In Kitchens

You should always praise the kitchen island—right-sized and well-placed islands. A vital cooking room design item can become a barrier if it's too big or placed poorly. According to Peterman, it becomes an obstacle rather than a place where people gather.

The Workaround

She advises keeping it clutter-free, using backless stools that tuck in, and adding wonderful pendant lighting to balance the visual weight. Consider how movement can benefit your kitchen.

Make it your prep station if you need more space.

Make it a modest dining nook if it's too far away.

You cannot change the footprint and focus on making it intentional and easy to traverse. Start with function, then add design to make it fit.

5. Kitchens That Are Closed-Off

Open-concept kitchens are in demand because open-plan homes are becoming more trendy. These large rooms create good flow and simplify moving between sections and activities. Closed-off kitchens often do the opposite.

"A closed-off kitchen can isolate the cook and can make the space feel smaller," says Moszczynski.

The Workaround

To make this kitchen layout more appealing, you can gather everyone and not let the main cook alone. Adding a table or modest seating area is simple. This allows non-recipe-makers to chat and unwind. There are also proposals for permanent adjustments.

She says: ""I’d play around by removing a wall or adding a partial barrier which can improve connection to other areas and use larger windows and light colors to brighten the space."

"Regardless of any layout—declutter daily, use smart storage solutions, and get good lighting," she added.

Homes were selling quickly a few years ago and receiving numerous offers that were significantly higher than their asking price. Customers seemed to be waiting in line at the door regardless of the pricing you set.

The housing market of today, however, is different. As inventory has increased, buyers are becoming more picky. Houses are remaining in place for a little while. Additionally, more vendors are being forced to lower their pricing.

How do you manage to win, then? Setting your home's initial price is the first step in the process. That is more important than ever today and has the power to make or break your business.

Buyers and Sellers Have a Genuine Price Disconnect

According to a recent Realtor.com survey, 81% of property sellers think they will receive at least their asking price. However, real sales data indicates that the difference between what buyers are ready to pay and what sellers expect is widening.

In actuality, 44% of recently sold homes sold for less than the asking price, according to an annual report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Additionally, before the house sold, one in three sellers had to lower their price at least once. It's an indication that expectations might not be entirely in line with the reality of today.

The Redfin graph below illustrates how asking prices (blue line) are increasingly higher than actual sales prices (green line):

gap-between-home-list-prices-and-sale-prices-is-widening

This indicates that not all purchasers are prepared to pay the prices that many sellers are requesting. You can still sell for a high price, but you must start with a price that is in line with what buyers are prepared to pay in the current market.

What Takes Place If Your Home Is Overpriced?

Setting a high initial price for your home could seem like a good idea since it gives you more negotiating leverage. However, the truth is that a home that is too expensive may remain on the market and deter potential purchasers.

Buyers are intelligent. Upon seeing a house that has been abandoned for some time, they begin to question whether it is in good condition. Less interest, fewer showings, and ultimately a price reduction to get people's attention can result from that. In the words of Realtor.com:

“By getting the right price early on, you can increase the odds buyers will be interested in the home. In turn, this decreases the chances the home will sit on the market for a lengthier timeline, also reducing the odds you’ll need to lower the listing price.”

Selling a house might be more difficult the longer it sits on the market.

If you price your home correctly, you still have a fantastic opportunity.

It's crucial to rely on an agent who is aware of local conditions when determining your asking price in order to avoid making this error.

The pricing sweet spot for your neighborhood will vary depending on where you reside, so your realtor will consider buyer patterns, inventory levels, and recent local sales.

It's also important to remember that throughout the last five years, property prices have increased by more than 57%. Therefore, you'll probably still be in a wonderful position financially even if you price a little lower than the amount you had in mind.

By working with a local real estate agent, you can increase the amount of interest in your home, prevent it from being on the market for too long, and increase the likelihood that you will receive a competitive offer.

The right pricing works in the current market. As Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, explains:

“. . . the best properties, well priced are selling quickly in most of the country.”

Final Note

Your selling opportunity hasn't altered, but the market has. You just need the correct pricing package. To find out what price will help your house sell quickly and for the most money, speak with a local real estate agent about current pricing in your neighborhood.

When describing items that already have well-known names, the real estate industry enjoys inventing new, sometimes perplexing phrases. The phrase "great room" has become widely used yet is not always understood.

Although great rooms are not the same as front or living rooms, that does not imply that their functions are different.

In this post, we'll discuss what a great room is, what it is for, and more. So without further ado, let's get started!

What Is A Great Room?

A great room is simply a huge ground-floor space in or close to the heart of the house. Like a living room, it can include couches, comfortable seats, and a television where guests can gather. However, although a great room can function as a living room, a living room cannot always function as a great room because the area is larger than a standard living room.

Advantages Of Having A Great Room

As mentioned, a great room has a lot of available space which may contain various pieces of furniture and are organized into nooks and sections for multiple functions.

For instance, you might have a couch and comfy seats in a corner for family gatherings or around a fireplace for reading and resting. You could also have a bar for fun, coffee tables for dining, and specific places for kids to run and play in your great room when you have a great room.

This is because great rooms have open floor plans, which means no walls separate the various seating sections. As a result, the entire space appears spacious and inviting for multiple uses.

When it comes to great rooms, the most important thing to keep in mind is their various functions. A great room is well-suited for eating, relaxing, entertaining, living, and playing, whereas a living room can be a good spot to hang out or entertain guests.

Great rooms usually have short tables where people can sit, eat, or drink, but they're not meant to be dining rooms.

Since they are open-plan, it often leads into kitchens and eating rooms.

How To Set Up A Great Room

These are ideas you can consider if you're uncertain if a great room will take up too much space or how to make the most of that space.

  1. Choose Specific Transitions

You should make each great room feel different, even though they should be connected to the other rooms in your home. This can be done very well by choosing the specific transitions.

Changing the kitchen or dining room's lighting or flooring can also help maintain its ambiance. One quick way to tell that the space has changed is with roof beams and decorative arches.

  1. Adding A Variety Of Furniture

There are many ways to divide a big room into different areas, each with its color scheme, wall trim, and furniture. The great room can feel cozier and easier to handle if warm colors are used around comfortable chairs and cool colors are used around larger sitting areas.

image of a great room

  1. Consider Adding Floating Furniture

There's nothing worse than sitting against a wall and feeling like you're ten feet away from the nearest person. One of the best things about a great room is that it can have floating furniture. Opening sofas, tables, and chairs can make the space more inviting. This is especially true for great rooms with a lot of square footage.

  1. Having Large Windows

If you want more natural light in your home, great rooms are a great way to do it while also using less electricity to light the room. That's because great rooms usually have big windows on the outside walls that let in a lot of light. In addition, there are no inner walls so the light can bounce freely.

How To Maximize The Great Room

Want to learn more about great rooms? Visit our website for free resources.

 

Is it possible to buy a home after foreclosure?

The answer is: yes!

Yes, it's possible; however, obtaining a mortgage can be challenging since lenders see foreclosure as a huge threat to your ability to repay the loan.

Nonetheless, there are ways how you can restore your credit history and prove to lenders that you are now a responsible borrower.

In this post, we'll answer questions on foreclosure, including how long you should wait before buying a home, how to get a mortgage, etc.

But first, let's start with the basics.

What Is Foreclosure?

When a borrower defaults on a mortgage or other loan secured by a property, a lender may legally take possession of the property through a process known as foreclosure. The property may then be sold by the lender to recoup the unpaid balance.

Learn more about foreclosed properties by clicking this link.

How long should you wait before buying a home after a foreclosure?

Borrowers who have had their homes foreclosed on typically have to wait a certain amount of time before receiving a new mortgage loan from another institution. Extenuating circumstances, like a medical emergency, might shorten the time frame for some loan kinds.

Conventional Loan: 3 Years

Obtaining a conventional loan—one that mortgage market-makers like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac will purchase—after a foreclosure can take up to seven years. According to Jilyn Crawford, senior loan officer and sales manager at American Family Funding in Santa Clarita, California, you might only need to wait three years if the foreclosure was caused by a medical condition or a loss of work.

VA Loan: 2 Years

Only two years must pass between foreclosure and applying for a new loan, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans and active military personnel. Keep in mind that if you are eligible for a VA loan, you will receive a home loan entitlement, which is the highest amount that the VA promises to reimburse the lender in the event of default. "In a foreclosure, I have seen veterans lose some of their entitlement, but they still have some remaining. Crawford says, "It's all about the foreclosed amount."

USDA Loan: 3 Years

According to Crawford, if you have a foreclosure on your credit history, you must wait three years to be eligible for USDA loans, which are available mostly in rural regions.

Non-Qualified Mortgage: No Wait Time

According to Crawford, you may be eligible for another loan immediately following your foreclosure if you have a non-qualified mortgage (non-QM), or a loan that does not satisfy regulatory requirements. Keep in mind that compared to qualifying mortgages (QM), non-QM loans have different eligibility requirements, additional fees, and higher interest rates.

How To Obtain A Home Loan After A Foreclosure

If you can convince a lender that you're prepared for homeownership, you can reapply for a mortgage even after a foreclosure:

1. Examine your credit report.

Check for any past-due accounts forwarded to a collection agency by obtaining a complimentary copy of your credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com. It is helpful to contact the agency and attempt to work out a payment schedule if you are certain these accounts belong to you.

If you discover any mistakes on your credit report, collect supporting documentation and dispute it online, over the phone, or by mail with the relevant credit reporting company, such as TransUnion, Equifax, or Experian.

credit score

2. Make an effort to raise your credit score.

After a foreclosure, you will need to raise your credit score to purchase a home.

Make an effort to pay all bills on schedule. According to Crawford, it is extremely difficult to remove late payments from your credit report. If you don't frequently make late payments, you can try asking for a one-time goodwill adjustment, which most creditors would grant. To prevent forgetting to pay your bills, try setting them up for automatic payment.

Try to pay more than the minimum amount owed on any credit cards you may have. Speak with the creditor and ask for a payment plan if you are temporarily unable to make the minimum payment.

3. Restore revenue

Consistency in employment and income is often preferred by lenders. Finding a new work should be your top priority if you just got unemployed.

Be aware that your credit record, which contains details about the foreclosure, may be examined by your future employment. Generally speaking, this shouldn't affect your chances, but it can if you're applying for a position that directly involves money. It's vital to be open and honest about your efforts to overcome your previous credit setbacks.

4. Save as much as you can

You must demonstrate to a lender that you can repay the loan in the event of an emergency if you want to be eligible for another mortgage after foreclosure.

Crawford thinks it can be difficult, but if you can, reduce small expenses like eating out. Other options to save money include switching your cell phone or auto insurance plans, as well as canceling your cable TV or streaming subscription.

5. Find a lender according to your circumstances and needs

A new lender can be an ally while you work out how to purchase a home following foreclosure. Crawford advises looking for a lender who understands your circumstances or who offers a variety of options that can meet your needs. For example, choose a lender who specializes in VA loans if you're looking for one.

"All lenders are fishing in the same pond," according to Crawford. "The difference is in the loan officer and the knowledge that officer has," she added.

Reading customer reviews from different platforms is also helpful when you want to learn more about the lender's quality of service and experience.

What To Consider Before Buying A Home After Foreclosure?

Examine your finances and yourself before purchasing a new house following a foreclosure. Are you prepared to assume homeownership responsibilities once more? In addition to the monthly mortgage payment, consider the expenses associated with property ownership, such as maintenance and repairs. And think about the events that caused your previous house to be lost. Will they happen again?

Lastly, evaluate the local real estate market. Crawford advises, "You need to look at the state of the market at that time and whether a lender will work with you."

The benefits of homeownership are indisputable. However, there are instances where extending your rental period might help you pay off debt, improve your credit, and increase your assets. When you're ready, all of those factors will make buying a house after a foreclosure much less stressful.

If you want to learn more about foreclosure or homebuying transactions, click this for free resources.

 

Doorbell cameras are popular but does everyone, specifically real estate brokers, like them?

In this post, we'll find out what our real estate experts really think about these high-tech devices and whether they love or hate seeing these security gadgets on their listings.

Downsides Of Having Doorbell Cameras

Might Raise Red Flags

When they see your camera, some folks might wonder why you feel the need for one. “Is it a deterrent for crime or a neighbor taking your morning newspaper?” says Coldwell Banker Warburg broker Steven Hoffman. "This could lead to buyers having unpleasant questions at the beginning of the home tour," she added.

Might Make Homebuyers Feel Uncomfortable

Your camera may make your space feel more like a reality TV show than a home, according to Mihal Gartenberg, a Coldwell Banker Warburg broker. He explains that buyers may feel that they need to "be cautious about how they behave and, even more importantly, the things they say to each other about the home," which may make it more difficult to imagine themselves living there.

Might Not Look Appealing To Neighborhood

Broker Suzanne Weinstein believes that some homeowners face the risk of entering into an arrangement where the neighbors are already a little turned off by your presence. After all, nobody wants to start on the wrong foot. "Video-audio recording devices violate most proprietary leases that prohibit causing a nuisance or interfering with the quiet enjoyment (and right to privacy) of neighbors," she argues, pointing out that doorbell cameras such as Amazon Ring record private conversations.

Might Make The Realtor's Job Harder

According to Massachusetts real estate agent Jennifer Baptista, real estate brokers enjoy asking their clients about their initial impressions, but they are unable to do so when the homeowner is watching and listening. "It's challenging because I prefer to understand my clients' viewpoints in real-time," she adds, adding that she frequently loves to inquire about their "first impressions" as they approach the front door.

hand presses the button doorbell

Upsides Of Having Doorbell Cameras

Provide Sellers With Comfort

They can help homeowners feel a little more at ease about opening their homes to strangers, which is the major reason Heather Malone, who works with Coach Realtors on Long Island, doesn't mind seeing them at listings. "At times, a home may be showing when it is vacant, and it is always good to keep an eye on your asset when you’re not there," she explains.

Additionally, an agent and seller may decide to maintain a lockbox on the property. When this occurs and neither the seller nor the listing agent is present to show the house, it is beneficial to find out which agents were in and out of the property during that period and whether there were any problems when the seller returned home.

Make Great Gifts

According to Mike Robinson of Century 21 AllPoints Realty in Connecticut, doorbell cameras make a nice parting gift, even though some real estate agents may have unfavorable opinions about them. He explains, "I give them as closing gifts because I deal with a lot of out-of-state buyers." “I am big on personal safety and security and figure if someone is new to a neighborhood, the best way to give them some peace of mind is the ability to watch their front door 24/7, no matter where they might be.”

Adds Security To The Property

Avoiding porch pirates is a top concern for many individuals since, as we can all agree, we spend a lot more time clicking "add to cart" these days than we do browsing the store's aisles. "In addition to addressing safety issues within the house, doorbell cameras also reduce package theft in the neighborhood as a whole," explains Jaime Jones and Julie Mariani Cassel of J+J Team Homes. 49 million Americans were robbed by porch pirates in the previous year. Last year, an estimated $2.4 billion worth of merchandise was stolen from porches across the United States.

Affordable High-Tech

According to Compass Broker Kimberly Jay, doorbell cameras have become very commonplace due to their affordability and popularity. Doorbell cameras are standard equipment in single-family homes, townhouses, and non-doorman buildings. "Anyone can buy one from a big box store for less than $100," she adds, adding that they can give the impression that the sellers are tech-savvy or intelligent.

How about you? What are your thoughts about the doorbell camera? Would you have that security device in your home or not?

 

Moving Doesn’t Have to Be a Last-Minute Scramble

With a solid checklist and smart planning, you can stay organized, reduce stress, and even enjoy the process a little (yes, really). Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, this moving checklist will help you start now—so you’re not scrambling later.

📦 Why You Need a Moving Checklist

Start early, follow a plan, and you’ll thank yourself later.

🗓️ 8 Weeks Before Moving: Prep Mode

  1. Create a Moving Binder or Digital Folder
    Keep track of estimates, receipts, inventory lists, and contact information in one place. Bonus: It’s your new best friend.
  2. Start Decluttering
    • Go room by room: toss, donate, or sell what you don’t want to bring
    • Use the “one-year rule”—if you haven’t used it in the past year, it can probably go
  3. Research Moving Companies
    Compare prices, check reviews, and book early—especially during peak season.
  4. Notify Your Landlord or HOA
    If you're renting, give proper notice and review any move-out requirements.

📦 6 Weeks Before Moving: Logistics Time

  1. Order Moving Supplies
    Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, labels—you’ll need more than you think.
  2. Take Measurements
    Measure furniture and doorways in both homes to avoid moving day surprises.
  3. Create an Inventory
    Especially helpful if you’re hiring movers or using storage. Snap photos of valuables.

📦 4 Weeks Before Moving: Get It in Gear

  1. Start Packing Non-Essentials
    Think seasonal decor, off-season clothes, books, and extra linens.
  2. Label Everything
    Label by room and contents. Pro tip: color-code boxes by room.
  3. Transfer or Set Up Utilities
    Schedule shutoff and setup for electricity, water, gas, internet, trash, etc.
  4. Notify Key Contacts
    • USPS (forward mail online)
    • Banks & credit cards
    • Subscriptions & streaming services
    • Insurance companies
    • Your employer and doctor/dentist

📦 2 Weeks Before Moving: Crunch Time

  1. Confirm All the Things
    Moving company, elevator access, parking permits, and time off work.
  2. Pack an Essentials Box
    Your “survival kit” for the first 24–48 hours:
    • Toiletries
    • Chargers
    • Basic cleaning supplies
    • Bedding
    • Snacks
    • Change of clothes
  3. Back Up Your Devices
    If anything gets lost or damaged, your data will still be safe.

📦 1 Week Before Moving: Final Countdown

  1. Clean Your Current Home
    Especially if you’re renting and want that deposit back.
  2. Defrost the Freezer
    Do this 24–48 hours before the move. Wipe everything dry to prevent leaks.
  3. Dispose of Hazardous Materials
    Check local rules for disposing paint, aerosols, propane, etc.

🚛 Moving Day: Let’s Do This

  1. Do a Final Walkthrough
    Check all rooms, closets, cabinets, and even the garage or attic.
  2. Protect Your Floors
    Plastic sheeting or towels can help keep both places clean.
  3. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
    Moving is physical—snacks and water are your best friends.

✅ After the Move: Settle In

  1. Unpack Essentials First
    Bathroom, bedroom, kitchen—skip the wall art for now.
  2. Test Smoke Detectors and Utilities
    Make sure everything is functioning properly.
  3. Update Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
    Most states require this within 30 days.
  4. Explore Your New Neighborhood
    Find your new favorites—grocery store, coffee shop, pizza place.

🎯 Final Tip: Start Early = Stress Less

Moving is a lot, but it doesn’t have to be a mess. With a timeline, a checklist, and a little planning, you’ll stay one step ahead—and that’s half the battle.

A well-written newsletter is vital for real estate agents who want to stay in close contact with their clients. When buying or selling a home, your audience will remain informed and involved, and they will consider whether you provide valuable content.

This post will talk about how email newsletters work and what should be included in them. These tips appeal to many readers and establish you as a reliable authority in your industry.

Why Should Real Estate Agents Use Newsletters?

Real estate agents can interact with clients, develop prospects, and create lasting connections through email newsletters. Here's how it's so crucial that you include them as part of your marketing strategy:

  1. You Can Have A Direct Connection To Your Audience

Contact potential buyers, sellers, and previous clients directly to ensure your message gets to their email without using a third-party platform.

  1. Can Build Stronger Client Relationships

Share valuable and interesting content regularly to stay top of mind and build trust and confidence.

  1. Improved Professional Reputation

Showcase market updates, business trends, and your accomplishments to establish yourself as an expert in the field.

  1. Able To Maintain An Affordable Marketing Solution

Leverage email campaigns' cost-effective characteristics to keep your budget under control while obtaining a high return on investment.

  1. Enhanced Visibility For Marketing

Ensure that everyone knows about the homes you're selling by letting them know about new listings, price drops, and future open houses.

  1. Improved Website Traffic

Adding links to blog posts, community guides, and interesting material to your website or blog will help you get more viewers.

  1. Boosting Audience Engagement

Sending different messages to different groups, such as buyers, sellers, and previous clients, can yield better results.

  1. Consistent Opportunities for Referrals

Use stories and referral prompts to remember satisfied clients to tell others about your services and boost word-of-mouth marketing.

  1. Making Decisions Based On Data

You can keep improving your email marketing tactics by examining open rates, click-through rates, and engagement metrics and using A/B testing.

Planning your email marketing approach well can help your brand, make it easier to talk to customers, and grow your business. You need to use newsletters to stay competitive in today's digital-first real estate market and know how email newsletters work.

hands typing on a keyboard

Tips On What A Newsletter Should Include

Here are the tips on what a newsletter should include to help you get started and keep your content fresh, interesting, and useful for your readers.

  1. Update And Trends About The Market

Inform them about your area's most recent sales, usual prices, and market trends. As a result, people who are thinking about buying or selling will come to you for advice.

  1. Include Open Houses And New Listings

To showcase your most recent listings, use eye-catching images, important information, and links to complete property pages. Provide details about future open houses to increase interest and traffic.

  1. Share Local News And Events

By highlighting regional celebrations, events, and news, you can keep your audience engaged and strengthen your position as a local authority. As part of a more comprehensive marketing plan, you can even organize your own events.

  1. Give Some Tips On Home Maintenance

Provide people with up-to-date information on how to fix up and maintain their homes, like seasonal maintenance checklists or ways to save energy. This idea for an email newsletter is great for past clients who aren't actively looking for work right now, and it goes well with calls for referrals.

  1. Include Stories Of Real Estate Success

Showcase client endorsements or success stories on how you assisted sellers in maximizing their profit or buyers in finding their ideal house. Potential customers higher up your funnel seeking social evidence to aid their decision-making would see this as great.

  1. Add Design And Do-It-Yourself Trends

Another excellent method to provide value for referral requests is to offer guidance on DIY projects, house staging, and decorating. Adding before-and-after pictures can be especially interesting.

  1. Put Local Highlights

Describe the exact areas where you work, including any amenities, schools, or other interesting features. Use geographic segmentation to ensure the information is relevant and include what makes each place unique.

  1. Give Buyers Advice

Provide possible first-time buyers with information on how to get a mortgage, how the housing market is doing, and how to navigate the home-buying process.

  1. Home Sellers Techniques

Assist people who want to sell their homes by advising them on how to price, stage, and market them effectively.

  1. Keep Your Clients Up-To-Date On Real Estate

Share your thoughts on the latest economic news with your audience, such as changes in mortgage rates or new laws affecting home ownership.

  1. Add Seasonal Content

Be creative with your email newsletter by including holiday decorating tips, party planning ideas, or home improvement tips for the summer.

  1. Share About Perspective On Investment

Provide information on investing in real estate, such as tips on renting property, ways to determine return on investment (ROI), and market predictions.

  1. Include Content From Behind The Scenes

Show what you do as a real estate agent daily. You can make your brand more real by discussing your struggles, successes, and issues.

  1. Use Polls And Fun Quizzes

Use interactive content to engage clients, such as quizzes about the style of home they dream of or certain polls about homes for sale.

  1. You Should Focus On Your Clients

Go over your clients' interests, habits, and new home experiences. Highlight a client's backyard garden oasis or local cultural embrace. This strategy connects without focusing on buying or selling.

  1. Give Some Exclusive Incentives And Offers

Offer incentives like staging discounts for seller leads or gift cards for previous client referrals. Encourage client's actions with incentives.

  1. Ensure You Include FAQ's

Responding to real estate queries like mortgage qualification, closing costs, and negotiation is an excellent plan for first-timers.

  1. Add Real Estate Glossary

Break down real estate terminology with simple explanations and adjust jargon to your audience.

  1. Highlights Of Local Businesses

Include local businesses in your email to offer your support. This will boost neighborhood ties and expand your network.

  1. Include Personal Accomplishments And Update

Share your achievements, certificates, and personal milestones to engage with your audience.

Taking Advantage Of AI Platforms To Create Newsletters

Making engaging newsletters can be made easier with the use of artificial intelligence solutions like ChatGPT and email marketing systems that incorporate AI-powered capabilities. They can assist you with coming up with ideas for subjects, creating catchy subject lines, and producing well-written material that is suited to your target audience.

AI saves you time and guarantees that your newsletters stay interesting and current by offering editable templates, making your material easier to read, and even recommending the optimum times to send your emails.

A wide range of elements influence the dynamic and ever-changing real estate market. Seasonality is one of these elements that frequently goes unnoticed but can have a big influence on it. Both the availability and demand for real estate as well as the pricing at which they are purchased and sold can be impacted by the seasonality of the seasons. We'll go into great detail on how seasonality affects real estate pricing and what investors, buyers, and sellers need to think about when dealing with this part of the market.

Understanding How The Seasonal Real Estate Market Works

Like many other businesses, real estate is subject to year-round changes. Although these variations can differ by region, some broad patterns can be seen, and they are frequently linked to the seasons.

Spring: In the real estate industry, spring is usually a busy time of year. Longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures encourage buyers to begin their home search. To avoid disturbance to the school year, families with children frequently choose to relocate during the summer. Because of this, demand is typically higher and prices are more expensive in the spring.

Summer: With many purchasers hoping to finalize agreements before the start of the following school year, the summer months remain a robust time for real estate. Nevertheless, the market might begin to cool off as the summer heat builds.

Fall: Although there may be a little less action in the fall than in the summer, it's still regarded as a rather lively season. Buyers who didn't find what they were searching for in the spring and summer can still be seeking, and the weather is frequently favorable.

Winter: The real estate market is typically at its slowest during the winter. Reduced daylight hours, holiday obligations, and colder temperatures might put off both buyers and sellers. It's important to remember, though, that some buyers intentionally look during this period in the hopes of discovering motivated sellers who are open to negotiation.

Let's examine the specifics of how seasonality affects real estate prices now that we have a general idea of how seasons might influence the market.

How Seasonality Affects Home Prices

Dynamics of Supply and Demand:

A major factor in influencing real estate prices is the law of supply and demand. Due to increased demand in the spring and summer, sellers may have the upper hand, which would raise prices. On the other hand, buyers might have more negotiating power in the winter, when demand is weaker, which could lead to lower prices.

supply and demand

Levels Of Inventory

The number of properties on the market may also be impacted by seasonality. There is more inventory to pick from in the spring and summer when more sellers market their houses. More competition among sellers may result from this, which could drive down prices. Due to fewer listings, buyers may have fewer options in the winter, which could result in higher pricing.

Aspects Related To Emotions

Seasons can also affect the psychology of buyers and sellers. For instance, when the weather is nice and the gardens are in full flower in the spring, purchasers might be more prepared to pay extra for a property. However, to speed up a transaction, dealers can be more inclined to bargain for lower pricing during the winter.

Variation By Region

It's crucial to remember that each place may experience seasonality's effects differently. The seasonal variations might not be as noticeable in warmer regions as they would be in places with different seasons. For example, winter may be the busiest time of year for real estate in ski resort cities.

Prospects For Investment

Having a solid understanding of seasonality can help real estate investors make wise choices. When the market heats up, purchasing in the off-season, when demand is weaker and prices are lower, might result in higher investment returns.

Advice For Both Purchasers and Sellers

Buyers: When looking for a home, take your schedule and priorities into account. Although there might be more selections in the spring and summer, the winter months may provide greater bargains.

Sellers: Remember that you might get a higher price during the spring and summer months if you have the freedom to decide when to list your home.

A crucial but frequently disregarded element in the real estate market is seasonality. Knowing how it affects prices, supply, and demand can help investors, buyers, and sellers make wise choices.

Understanding the effects of seasonality can help you successfully navigate the real estate market, whether your goal is to buy your ideal house, sell a property, or make smart investments. Therefore, keep in mind that seasonal variations could influence your experience and results the next time you set out on a real estate adventure.

In today's competitive market, it's critical to optimize your home's value, and one of the best ways to do this is by implementing smart landscape design.

Enhancing the curb appeal gives potential homebuyers a good first impression. On top of making it more appealing, a beautiful, well-kept yard adds value to your home.

10 Gardening And Landscaping Ideas To Increase Home Value

It doesn't matter how big or small your yard is; there are tips you can easily follow to turn it into a beautiful space. The best part is that you can find landscaping and gardening projects here that suit your needs and budget, so without further ado, let's get started!

1. Creating A Welcome Vibe

As they say, "first impressions last." When a guest enters your home, the first thing they notice is the front entrance. That said, a welcoming environment is important as it sets the vibe for your entire home. A simple paint job can help!

Adding vibrant followers and plants helps increase your curb appeal, too. You can also use seasonal flowers and evergreen bushes to add color throughout the year. Including low-growing shrubs or blooming plants in the entrance can make your walkway even more welcoming.

2. Promote Sustainability By Using Native Plants

Native plants are excellent for environmentally friendly landscaping. They require little maintenance and adapt well to the local climate. These plants are acclimated to the local soil, rainfall, and temperature fluctuations. This implies that you don't need to give them a lot of water, fertilize them frequently, or deal with pests as much.

Your landscaping's environmental impact can be reduced by using native species. You also benefit from their inherent strength. These plants can withstand local pests and illnesses better and typically require less water, making it easier for you to maintain your landscape.

3. Use Outdoor Lighting For Beauty And Safety

Outdoor lighting is not just for safety and security; it also adds a touch of aesthetic appeal to your yard at night.

With good outdoor lighting, you, your family, and visitors can move around safely when driveways, pathways, and entryways are well-lit.

But safety isn't the only consideration. The design of your house can be enhanced by smart lighting. It can draw attention to important areas of your yard and give the scene more depth. To create a visually appealing and multi-layered lighting design, consider utilizing spotlights, path lights, and string lights.

4. Build A Deck Or Patio

These days, outdoor living areas are increasingly popular. A thoughtfully designed patio or deck can significantly raise the value of your house. These spaces let you party, unwind, and experience outdoor living without actually leaving your house. Your indoor space can be expanded with a patio or deck, allowing you to move with ease indoors and outdoors.

Consider including elements, like cozy patio furniture, outdoor kitchens, or fireplaces in your patio or deck design. These accessories can improve the utility and appeal of your outdoor area. Anyone wishing to purchase your house will find it more appealing as a result.

5. Setting Up An Irrigation System

Many homeowners desire a lawn that is both attractive and healthy. Your grass will always receive enough water thanks to an irrigation system.

Since the irrigation system reduces the need for manual watering, you are already saving time and energy. Additionally, a properly built irrigation system irrigates your lawn uniformly. By doing this, too much or too little water is avoided.

These days, conserving water is crucial. Smart features are a common element of modern irrigation systems. Rain sensors and timers are among these features. They reduce waste, improve water use, and benefit the environment.

6. Creating A Fresh Produce Kitchen Garden

Edible gardens, sometimes known as kitchen gardens, have gained popularity recently. Living sustainably is becoming more and more popular. Imagine gathering fresh fruits, veggies, or herbs for your meals in your garden. Not only do you have a unique and fulfilling experience with a garden of your own, but you also have an abundant, aesthetically pleasing backyard.

Consider a few factors when designing your kitchen garden, such as the sunshine required by the plants, the product you wish to grow, and the kind of soil you have. An excellent option is a raised garden bed. They are simpler to maintain and provide excellent drainage.

7. Plant Trees For Privacy And Shade

A good landscape always includes a tree. They provide privacy, shade, and a pleasant appearance. A mature tree can significantly increase the value of your house as it makes your living area more appealing and pleasurable.

Trees can cool your house in the heat if you place them in the proper locations. Your air conditioning expenses may go down as a result.

Additionally, trees serve as organic privacy barriers. They help reduce noise and protect your home from intruders. When selecting trees, it's a good idea to consider their potential growth size and suitability for your local climate.

8. Creating Decorative Paths And Walkways

Paths and walkways are practical and improve the aesthetics of your landscape. They can connect various areas of your yard, facilitate visitor movement throughout your outdoor area, and enhance the overall appearance. People are encouraged to explore and take in your landscaping by these characteristics.

Consider selecting materials for your walkways and paths that complement the design of your house and the surrounding area. Flagstone, pavers, gravel, and stepping stones are popular options.

9. Building A Fire Pit For Parties

A fire pit is a wonderful place to gather with loved ones. It's also essential for maintaining safety and sustaining the fire.

Other than that, it provides warmth, a pleasant sensation, and everlasting enjoyment. Spending time with loved ones, sharing tales, and sitting around a roaring fire is a unique experience.

Make sure you have ample seats as you set up your fire pit area. To provide more seating, you could include features like benches or a wall.

10. Promote Calm Using Water Features

Your landscape design might become more serene with the addition of water elements. The region is calmed by the gentle sound of flowing water. Blocking out loud noises might also be beneficial.

Small fountains and huge waterfalls are both options. Your budget and style can be accommodated by a variety of possibilities. You may enhance the beauty of your water feature by adding aquatic plants. Additionally, these plants provide a habitat for beneficial species, such as frogs and dragonflies.

beautiful house with curb appeal

Utilizing Strategic Landscaping To Increase Curb Appeal

Increasing the value of your house and attracting potential purchasers depend heavily on curb appeal. Because buyers notice your home's exterior and landscaping first, it's important to make a favorable impression. Not only does well-designed landscaping look good, but it may also make buyers feel proud and at ease. This emotional bond might inspire people to envision creating joyful memories in their new house.

In this part, we will talk about the importance of first impressions and some useful tips on choosing the right plants. By doing this, you can make your curb appeal more appealing to potential homeowners.

Why First Impressions Matter In Home Value

First impressions are crucial in the real estate industry. How prospective buyers initially feel about your property can have a big impact on what they think. This may have an impact on their decision to make an offer. It displays pride of ownership if the exterior is attractive and well-maintained. It implies that the interior is likewise taken care of. However, a disorganized and neglected front yard could give the impression to potential buyers that the house is not well-maintained and that costly repairs are required.

Buyers may remember the first few seconds they spend viewing your house. They can use this time to determine the worth of your property and whether they wish to explore more. An attractive exterior facilitates the development of an emotional connection. This increases the likelihood of a successful transaction and a positive viewing experience.

Choosing The Right Plants

Finding the right plants to enhance the curb appeal of your home is important. It also contributes to the creation of a lovely landscape design. Consider your preferences, the style of your home, and the neighborhood before you visit the nursery as well as factors, like the type of soil, the amount of sunlight the plants will receive, and the size of the plants. They will thrive in the locations you designate in this manner.

Select a variety of deciduous and evergreen plants. Like shrubs, evergreens provide a pleasing backdrop and shape for vibrant flowers. In addition to offering stunning foliage in the fall, deciduous trees may offer shade throughout the sweltering summer months. In addition to lowering your workload, adding native plants will draw beneficial pollinators.

Eco-Friendly Landscaping Strategies To Increase Value

Homeowners today are more environmentally conscious; even when it comes to homes, they want it to reflect their values.

Eco-friendly landscaping benefits the environment plus, it also increases the value of your house. This is accomplished by drawing in eco-conscious customers, conserving water, and reducing maintenance expenses. You demonstrate that you take responsible ownership seriously by employing these landscaping techniques. You also improve the health and appearance of your property.

The advantages of implementing sustainable landscaping in your outside area are covered in this section. It provides easy ways to protect the environment and increase the value of your home.

Advantages Of Using Native Plants

Native plants have adapted and matured to thrive in particular environments. They are ideal for the soil and climate of the area. These plants require fewer pesticides, fertilizers, and water than non-native plants since they are accustomed to the local environment. Eventually, this saves you time, money, and effort while also making your work easier.

Native plants are often recommended by landscape designers and architects. In addition to its ecological advantages, they can attract beneficial insects and wildlife. For pollinators such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, native plants provide both food and habitat. This contributes to the development of a robust ecosystem.

Water Conservation Techniques

Water conservation is crucial for beautiful landscaping, particularly in areas with water constraints or drought. By adopting intelligent watering techniques, you may create a garden that thrives even in arid environments while conserving water. An effective irrigation system is a fantastic way to conserve water.

Plants that require the same amount of water should be in a group. This improves the irrigation system's performance. Mulching plants is also beneficial. It prevents weed growth, maintains soil moisture, and stabilizes soil temperature, all of which reduce water evaporation. To avoid wasting water, frequently inspect your irrigation system for leaks or other issues.

The Effects Of Outdoor Living Spaces On Home Value

Nowadays, having an outdoor living space is considered a necessity rather than a luxury. They provide a tranquil setting for unwinding and taking in the scenery without leaving the comforts of home. The desire for homes with comfortable outside spaces has increased in the real estate market. This modification demonstrates how much these areas can increase the value of real estate. In addition to making your life better, well-designed outdoor living areas can increase the number of potential purchasers.

Outdoor Entertainment Area Trends

Outdoor living spaces have evolved significantly. Nowadays, homeowners transform their backyards into entertaining areas that complement their lifestyle. They desire outdoor spaces that bridge the gap between interior and outdoor living. This makes the transition between houses and the natural world seamless. Features like fire pits, comfortable seats, and outdoor kitchens have therefore gained popularity.

Weather-resistant furniture, outdoor lighting, and sound systems are becoming more and more necessary as a result of the trend of combining interior and outdoor areas. These components contribute to the practicality and friendliness of outdoor spaces. You may improve your enjoyment of your outside space and raise the value of your house in the real estate market by incorporating these trends.

ROI Of Constructing A Patio Or Deck

For homeowners who want to improve their outside living space and increase the value of their house, investing in a deck or patio is a smart move. Particularly in areas where outdoor living is highly desired, real estate brokers frequently highlight the substantial return on investment that accompanies a well-built deck or patio. When they sell their house, homeowners should anticipate receiving a sizable return on their investment, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

roi table

In addition to expanding your living area, adding a deck or patio improves the curb appeal of your home and boosts its attractiveness to potential purchasers.

Increasing Property Value with Useful Landscaping

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, landscaping is essential for functional reasons. Adding practical upgrades can significantly increase the value of your house. To solve issues, provide seclusion, and create a more comfortable outdoor space, useful landscaping entails utilizing hard surfaces and plants in clever ways. Your home's market worth increases when you concentrate on these factors since you not only make it more useful but also draw in potential purchasers.

Below, we'll talk about the importance of trees and shrubs in landscaping as well as tips for enhancing privacy that can raise the aesthetic appeal and market value of your house.

The Function of Shrubs And Trees In Landscape Design

Shrubs and trees are essential to any well-designed landscape. In addition to adding beauty and structure, they raise the value of your house. The ecosystem can benefit from tree planting. They offer shade, lower noise levels, and enhance air quality. Energy expenses can be further reduced with this hue. In real estate, mature trees are very significant.

Shrubs are versatile in landscape design because of their wide range of sizes, forms, and colors. They can be used as privacy hedges, to soften the appearance of your house, or as striking garden accents. They also increase the value of real estate.

Privacy Solutions Through Landscaping

For your outdoor area to seem serene and isolated, privacy is crucial. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, landscaping can assist increase the privacy of your property. Utilizing these components in your landscape design enhances your home's aesthetics, functionality, and value in addition to keeping strangers out. This is a plus for buyers since they typically search for privacy.

Planting hedges is a fantastic technique to create a natural screen. Evergreens that provide year-round privacy, such as holly, boxwood, and arborvitae, are good choices for hedges. For more privacy, you might also install climbing vines on a wall or fence. Consider creating a vertical garden or living wall for a more organic look. In addition to providing privacy, this gives your outdoor area a distinctive and pleasant appearance.

Bottom Line

To sum up, landscaping may significantly raise the curb appeal and value of your house. You may do this by including functional outside areas, native plants, outdoor lighting, and a cozy front entry. These adjustments can improve the aesthetics and environmental friendliness of your house. Your yard can become more charming and serene by adding water features, fire pits, and lovely walkways.

In addition to improving the appearance of your house, smart landscaping can also increase its value. For a higher return on your investment, use native plants to benefit the ecosystem and adhere to outdoor living trends. Create neat and beautiful landscaping that reflects your personal style and raises your home's worth.

Placing a "For Sale" sign in the yard and waiting for offers isn't the only thing involved in selling a house. You need a strategy if you want to sell it for top dollar. These ten professional-backed suggestions will help you increase the value of your home and draw in the right purchasers, whether you live in Indiana or elsewhere.

Let's get started!

Make Your Curb Appeal Pop

Have you ever driven by a house and made an instant judgment? The same is true for buyers. The good news? A few minor adjustments can have a big effect.

Local Tip: Homes with excellent curb appeal in Indiana neighborhoods like Indianapolis and Fishers typically sell more quickly and for more money.

Don't Forget To Declutter

Buyers don't want to see that pile of mail on the counter or your enormous collection of fridge magnets. They want to visualize a place they can live in.

Here are the things you can do:

Choose The Right Home Improvements

Before selling, not every improvement is worthwhile. Although a complete kitchen makeover is unnecessary, minor adjustments might yield significant benefits.

Stage Your Home

Have you ever noticed how welcoming model homes feel? That is all because of staging. Although hiring a professional is not necessary, a little work goes a long way.

Give The Right Price

We understand that everyone wants to sell their house for the most money. However, putting a home on the market for too long might make it stale, and overpricing will turn off buyers.

Work with a local expert or real estate agent (a.k.a. US) to price it competitively from the start rather than setting your sights too high and running the danger of price reductions later.

real estate agent discussing in front of her client

Strategically Market Your Home

The days of just posting a listing on real estate websites and moving on are long gone. Your house needs to look amazing online if you want high-ball offers.

Consider these:

Be Flexible With Viewings

We understand that having strangers wander through your house at unexpected times is bothersome. However, your chances of receiving a fantastic offer increase with the number of showings.

Prioritize Repairs Before They Become Deal-Breakers

The shaky stair railing or the leaking faucet will be noticed by buyers. Fix the simple things now rather than waiting for a house inspection to reveal problems.

Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades

A house with lower utility costs is a big selling point. That said, make sure to emphasize any energy-saving improvements you've made in your listing, such as:

Customers searching for long-term savings may be won over by these minor features!

Work With A Real Estate Agent

Without a doubt, you can sell your house on your own, but do you really want to handle all the paperwork, negotiations, pricing, and marketing by yourself?

An experienced agent, like us here at RE/MAX Advanced Realty, is aware of:

Want To Sell Your Home At A Top Dollar? Let's Make It Happen!

With the proper team by your side, selling your house doesn't have to be a daunting task. RE/MAX Advanced Realty can assist you whether you want to identify the ideal community for your next move, enhance the value of your house, or make the selling process go smoothly.

Are you prepared to move forward? For a free home appraisal and customized selling plan, get in touch with us right now! Let's discuss your objectives and come up with a plan that will get you the best deal. 

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