The cosmos is aligning for an extraordinary event in Indianapolis, and it's not just about astronomy—it's about embracing the wonders of the universe while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the city. Get ready to mark your calendars for the solar eclipse extravaganza happening from April 5 to April 8, 2024, as Indianapolis becomes the epicenter of cosmic celebrations. Let's delve into the stellar lineup of events tailored to make this celestial phenomenon an unforgettable experience.

Indy Solar Stroll:

Date: Fri, Apr 5, 2024 - Mon, Apr 8, 2024
Time: All day
Location: Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick, 132 West Walnut Street

Embark on a journey through the solar system right in the heart of Indianapolis with the Indy Solar Stroll. From the Sun to Pluto, this immersive installation stretches along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene and Marilyn Glick, inviting you to explore planets while discovering the Wholesale and Fountain Square Cultural Districts. Organized in collaboration with Visit Indy, this limited-time experience is your chance to walk, run, or bike through space along the picturesque Cultural Trail.

Solar Eclipse at the Indiana State Fairgrounds:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: All day
Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205

Prepare for an epic bash at the Indiana State Fairgrounds as the sun, moon, and earth align for a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. This isn't just an eclipse viewing; it's a festival of cosmic proportions. Enjoy drinks, indulge in eclipse-themed eats from local food trucks, and immerse yourself in a blend of science, entertainment, and community spirit. Get ready to witness history unfold against the backdrop of the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Pinewood Derby at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites:

Date: Wed, Mar 27, 2024 - Mon, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 10am - 5pm
Location: Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, 650 West Washington Street

Experience the thrill of racing Pinewood Derby cars at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a newbie, this event promises adrenaline-pumping excitement as cars zip down the track towards victory. Plus, don't miss the special eclipse-themed racing on April 8, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.

Glow and Flow Sunrise Yoga:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 7am - 8am
Location: Downtown Canal, Canal Walk, Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Awaken your inner sun as you greet the sunrise on the morning of the total solar eclipse with a rejuvenating yoga session at the scenic Downtown Canal. Embrace the darkness with luminous orbs, glow sticks, and a beginner-friendly flow, celebrating the emerging light over the city skyline amidst the celestial energy of the day.

Eclipse Extravaganza 

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 10am - 3:30pm
Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 North Meridian Street

Join in a full day of solar eclipse programming at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. From outdoor eclipse activities to arts and science experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Witness the wonders of the eclipse while engaging in hands-on learning and exploration at one of the city's most beloved cultural institutions.

Eclipse-A-Palooza:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 10am - 6pm
Location: Pedego Indy, 850 Massachusetts Ave

DETAILS Three options to experience the Eclipse-A-Palooza.

All participants will receive a gift bag, including eclipse glasses and a sampling of Indy's favorite snacks.

NOTE: Helmets are provided to all riders. Riders must be at least 18 years old, or accompanied by a parent or guardian. Individuals will need to sign a waiver and leave a credit card deposit for the use of a rental bike.

Lunacy! Solar Eclipse Festival at White River State Park:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 10am - 5pm
Location: White River State Park, 801 West Washington Street

Experience the eclipse in all its glory at White River State Park, offering multiple viewing locations and a plethora of activities to enhance your eclipse experience. From food trucks to yoga classes and live performances, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate this celestial event against the stunning backdrop of the park.

Solarbration: VIP Eclipse Event at Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 10am - 5pm
Location: Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, 650 West Washington Street

For an exclusive viewing experience, indulge in the Solarbration VIP Event at the Indiana State Museum. With balcony access, reserved parking, specialty drinks, eclipse-themed hors d'oeuvres, and more, this VIP experience promises luxury and unparalleled views of the total solar eclipse.

Total Solar Eclipse Celebration:

Join in a celebration of the total solar eclipse with a day full of hands-on activities, live demonstrations, fun facts, collaborative art, and science experiences at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. Receive complimentary solar viewing glasses (while supplies last) or purchase a pair from the Indiana Store. Learn about safe viewing practices and find a prime spot on the front lawn to witness the eclipse at its peak around 3:06 p.m. (subject to weather conditions). Indoors, enjoy a live stream of the eclipse in the IMAX® theater or the museum’s auditorium. After the eclipse, explore museum galleries, marvel at a genuine moon rock, and engage in earth, moon, and space-themed activities. Register by Friday, April 5, 2024.

Ticket Pricing:

Don't miss this chance to experience the Total Solar Eclipse Celebration—an unforgettable day for all ages!

Blackout at the Biergarten:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 11am - 4pm
Location: Rathskeller at the Athenaeum, 401 East Michigan Street

Raise a glass to the eclipse at the Biergarten, where live music, food, and drinks await under the open sky. Toast to this celestial event with a special beer crafted by Sun King Brewery and immerse yourself in the magic of the Great American Eclipse.

Sun King Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Party:

Date: Monday, Apr 8, 2024
Time: 11am - 4pm
Location: Sun King Brewing Co., 135 North College Avenue

Join Sun King Brewery for a viewing party of cosmic proportions as darkness falls over Indianapolis during the Great American Eclipse. With free activities, special eclipse-themed beer, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the cosmos.

Don't miss your chance to be part of history as Indianapolis becomes the center stage for the 2024 solar eclipse extravaganza. From immersive installations to VIP experiences and everything in between, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we embrace the darkness and celebrate the wonders of the universe. Mark your calendars and get ready for an astronomical adventure like no other!

 

Last Saturday, March 16th, the Nire Event Center was a lively hub of excitement and anticipation as we came together to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our RE/MAX Advanced Realty team at our 2024 Annual Awards Night. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and camaraderie, as we eagerly awaited the moment to honor our brightest stars. With spirits as high as balloons at a festival, we reminisced about the remarkable triumphs of the past year while eagerly looking forward to the adventures and successes awaiting us in the year ahead.

In 2023, our collective efforts propelled us to remarkable heights, with impressive statistics reflecting our commitment to excellence. Our total company sales volume reached a staggering $329,712,496, with a total of 848 transactions, and an average sales price of $262,276. These numbers are a testament to the dedication and hard work of each member of our team.

But behind these figures lies the true heart of our success—the individuals and teams whose unwavering dedication and passion have propelled us forward. From managing brokers to agents and support staff, each person at RE/MAX Advanced Realty plays a crucial role in our collective journey, and we are immensely grateful for their contributions.

As the night unfolded, our excitement peaked with the announcement of the Club Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and teams for their exceptional achievements. Let's take a closer look at the winners:

CLUB AWARDS:

As the excitement built, we transitioned seamlessly to honor our exceptional teams with the Club Team Awards:

100% Club Team Award:

This award recognizes teams achieving a total commission between $100,000 to $249,999. The recipients were:

Joyce Campbell, Rob Campbell (Team Leader), and Kayla Brandenburg.

Platinum Club Team Award:

Recognizing teams achieving $250,000 to $499,999 in gross commissions, the recipients were:

Pinnacle Club Team Award:

This prestigious award recognizes teams achieving $2 million+ in gross commissions.

In the photo from left to right : Column 1 ( Michael Carter, Scott Chain, Jeff Cloyd, Clint Cooper, Kitty Dangcil. Jason Dodd, Stewart Duhamell, Nate Elkins, Robert Ertel, Josh Graves) , Column 2 ( Doreen Harris, René Hauck, Ryan Hendren, Bob Hoffman, Michelle Jackson, Justin Jackson, Mukul Khanna, Anthony King, Josh Latham, Sophie Lingen), Column 3 ( Jun Liu, David Luse, Bradley McCleerey, Jessica Montalvo, Madison Nauman, Michael Nauman, Sharika Pandwar, Jade Perry, Lawens Pierre, Hayley Puff) Column 4 ( Aubrey Sanchez, Shelby Scott, Danielle Shouse, Cheryl Sizemore, Phillip Tinsley, Lindsey Winkhart, Jordan Wirth, Dana Wright, Doug Alvey - West Office Managing Broker, Dennis Nottingham - Broker/Owner, Team Leader)

 

Following this, we celebrated our Career Awards, starting with the prestigious RE/MAX Hall of Fame induction:

RE/MAX Hall of Fame:

 

Recognizing those who've surpassed $1 million in gross commissions, regardless of length of service, we proudly induct our rockstar agents:

Congratulations to Jun Liu, Cate Waggoner-Lee, Jason Kraus, and Scott Chain for their outstanding achievement in joining the prestigious RE/MAX Hall of Fame.

Moving on to the Specialty Awards:

Rising Star:

Shelby Scott was recognized as the Rising Star, highlighting her exceptional potential and contribution to the team.

Top Agent:

Scott Chain was celebrated as the Top Agent, highlighting his exceptional performance and invaluable contributions to the Brokerage.

Top Team:

The Craftsman Group was celebrated as the Top Team, recognizing their exceptional teamwork, dedication, and outstanding results.

Finally, we extended our accolades to the outstanding teams and individuals  that made it to the 2023 RE/MAX Top Producers List:

RE/MAX Top Producers 2023: At the helm is the indomitable 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺, commanding the #1 position across multiple categories:

Hot on their heels, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 shines brightly:

𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 leave an indelible mark, clinching the Top 48 spot in the fiercely competitive Top 50 Teams by Transactions Category.

Meanwhile, 𝗠.𝗢.𝗩.𝗘 . earns well-deserved recognition, claiming the Top 49 spot in the challenging Team Residential and Commercial Combined Categories.

And let's not forget our very own 𝗞𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗹, making waves in the individual rankings:

 

An additional spotlight shines on the remarkable achievements of the Indy Home Pros Team. In the RE/MAX Year-End rankings, Indy Home Pros Team proudly secured the #16 spot in the U.S. and #37 globally, showcasing our prowess in both residential and commercial sectors. Notably, we achieved #3 in the U.S. and #7 worldwide for commercial teams, and #16 in the U.S. for residential teams. This outstanding performance underscores our dedication to excellence on a global scale, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire Indy Home Pros Team for their extraordinary contributions and stellar accomplishments.

The night wouldn't have been complete without a special mention of our partners and sponsors who have stood by us throughout our journey. We extend our deepest gratitude to Vision of the Kingdom Catering for providing the delicious food that fueled our festivities. Additionally, we thank Bailey & Wood Financial Group NMLS #2334 and IndyLegal Title Services for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in our success.

To our friends, families, and loyal clients, we owe a debt of gratitude for your constant encouragement and support. Your belief in us has been the driving force behind our achievements, and we are honored to have you by our side.

As we look ahead to 2024, we do so with excitement and optimism, knowing that the challenges we face will only serve to strengthen our resolve and determination. Together, we will continue to raise the bar, inspire one another, and achieve greatness beyond measure.

Here's to RE/MAX Advanced Realty and the unstoppable spirit of our incredible team. Cheers to another year of success, growth, and endless possibilities!

 

In 2023, Indiana's real estate market witnessed unprecedented success, with RE/MAX Advanced Realty emerging as the leader once again. Our dedication to excellence has propelled us to the forefront of Indiana's real estate scene, reaffirming our position as Indy’s Leading Brokerage and home to the state's #1 selling team. We're proud to highlight the outstanding achievements of our teams and individual agents who have excelled and secured notable positions in the coveted Top Producers List.

INDY HOME PROS TEAM:

In the photo from left to right : Column 1 ( Michael Carter, Scott Chain, Jeff Cloyd, Clint Cooper, Kitty Dangcil. Jason Dodd, Stewart Duhamell, Nate Elkins, Robert Ertel, Josh Graves) , Column 2 ( Doreen Harris, René Hauck, Ryan Hendren, Bob Hoffman, Michelle Jackson, Justin Jackson, Mukul Khanna, Anthony King, Josh Latham, Sophie Lingen), Column 3 ( Jun Liu, David Luse, Bradley McCleerey, Jessica Montalvo, Madison Nauman, Michael Nauman, Sharika Pandwar, Jade Perry, Lawens Pierre, Hayley Puff) Column 4 ( Aubrey Sanchez, Shelby Scott, Danielle Shouse, Cheryl Sizemore, Phillip Tinsley, Lindsey Winkhart, Jordan Wirth, Dana Wright, Doug Alvey - West Office Managing Broker, Dennis Nottingham - Broker/Owner, Team Leader)

Led by RE/MAX Advanced Realty’s CEO and Owner/Broker, Dennis Nottingham, the Indy Home Pros Team stands as the #1 Selling RE/MAX Team in Indiana. With 40 full-time associates specializing in corporate, private, and government-owned properties in Central Indiana, their achievements include:

THE CRAFTSMAN GROUP:

Under the leadership of Cate Waggoner-Lee, The Craftsman Group has secured the Top 23 spot in the Team Residential Combined Categories and held strong at Top 27 in the Top 50 Teams by Transaction Categories. Consisting of team members Marcus Fillyaw, Matt Henninger, Gigi Melloh, Jackie Ray, Sarah Ragsdale, and Katrin Teverbaugh, they prioritize a client-first mentality and are known for their highly educated team and commitment to a balanced life.

 

TEAM - RESULTS

Led by Team Leader Jason Williamson, Team Results has made a significant mark by clinching the Top 48 spot in the fiercely competitive Top 50 Teams by Transactions Category. Jason Williamson, Russ Burk, and Robyn Roller pursue their passion as a team, promising excellent service with honesty, integrity, and commitment.

M.O.V.E.

Move with RE/MAX, helmed by the dynamic duo  Jason Kraus and Tony Sowers, combines over two decades of real estate expertise to offer unparalleled service. As local experts, they leverage their in-depth knowledge to maximize opportunities and value for clients. Their Top 49 ranking at Team | RESCOM Combined further solidifies their reputation as industry leaders.

Keith Turnbill:

Our very own Keith Turnbill also made it to the Top Individual list, securing the Top 49 spot in the Individual Residential and Commercial Combined Category and an impressive Top 6 position in the Individual Commercial Only Category.

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we look forward to another year of growth, innovation, and success in 2024. Congratulations to all our exceptional teams and agents for their outstanding contributions! 🏆✨

In the dynamic landscape of Indiana real estate, one team stands out as the pinnacle of excellence: The Indy Home Pros Team at RE/MAX Advanced Realty. Renowned for our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results, our recent triumphs in the 2023 rankings reinforce our position as the undisputed leader in the industry. Let's delve into what sets us apart and why aligning with us means embracing unparalleled success.

Unmatched Performance: Setting the Standard

The collective journey of the hardworking agents at the Indy Home Pros Team to the summit of Indiana's real estate landscape is defined by our unwavering performance and outstanding achievements statewide. In the 2023 RE/MAX Top Producers rankings, we proudly claimed the #1 position in every crucial category: Team | Commercial Only, Top 50 Teams by TRANSACTIONS, and Team | Residential and Commercial Combined. Our expertise extends beyond mere residential properties, as we excel in both Residential and Commercial Combine Combined Categories. Through our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, we as a team, continually set new standards, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to exceeding expectations in every transaction.

Global Recognition: Excellence Beyond Borders

The Indy Home Pros Team's success transcends local boundaries, earning us recognition on a global scale. In the RE/MAX Year-End Top 100 U.S. rankings, The Indy Home Pros Team secured and impressive position, ranking #16 in both Team, Residential & Commercial categories. Furthermore, on the global stage, we stood strong in the RE/MAX Top 100 Worldwide rankings, achieving a remarkable #37 position in both Team Residential and Commercial categories.

Our excellence in commercial real estate is particularly noteworthy. In the RE/MAX Top 25 U.S. rankings for Large Teams, Commercial we soared to the #3 spot, showcasing our proficiency and expertise in this domain. Moreover, on the global scale, our team's prowess was evident as we clinched the #7 position in the RE/MAX TOP 25 Worldwide rankings for Large Teams, Commercial. In residential real estate, our achievements are equally remarkable. We solidified our presence in the RE/MAX Top 50 Worldwide rankings for Large Teams, Residential, achieving and impressive #36 position. Additionally, in the competitive U.S. market, The Indy Home Pros Team secured a commendable #16 spot in the RE/MAX Top 50 U.S. rankings for Large Teams, Residential. These rankings underscore our team's dedication to excellence and our capacity to achieve outstanding results across various segments of the real estate market.

Join Our Winning Team

Are you an ambitious agent ready to take your career to unprecedented heights? Joining the Indy Home Pros Team means gaining access to a supportive culture rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. Led by industry luminary Dennis Nottingham, our team empowers agents to unlock their full potential and thrive in today's competitive market. Seize the opportunity to be part of Indiana's number one team and embark on a journey of unparalleled success.  Reach out to us today to explore exciting opportunities and eleveate your real estate career with the Indy Home Pros Team.

Your Partner in Success

Whether you're  buying or selling, The Indy Home Pros Team is your trusted ally in achieving your real estate goals. Our proven track record and excellence, highlighted by our recent accolades, ensures that you receive unparalleled service and results that surpass expectations. Don't settle for mediocrity when you can partner with the best. Choose the Indy Home Pros Team for all your real estate needs and experience the transformative power of true expertise.

Experience Real Estate Excellence Today

When it comes to real estate success, trust the team that consistently ranks number one in Indiana and reigns supreme in the industry. Contact The Indy Home Pros Team today to kickstart your journey towards realizing your dreams. With us by your side, your success is not a possibility - it's inevitable. Let's make it happen together.

In Part 1, we’ve shared tips on how to make open houses more inviting, such as using signages, creating shareable videos, putting balloons in mailboxes, and more.

Now, let us dive deeper into the art of attracting buyers during an open house.

The Best Open House Ideas 2024

Make Use Of Virtual Staging

If the home you're showing is vacant, virtually staging a few or all rooms will be one of the best open house ideas to inspire buyers to imagine it furnished. If the house has a lot of stuff, colorful purple walls, carpets, or other old-fashioned features, virtual staging might show the owner what it would appear like with a few improvements or a neutral color scheme. Put a photo of the altered area on an easel or display a QR code in a few key rooms to link with a gallery of staged photos online.

Offer Them Branded Drinks

One way to not only get attention but keep you in your prospect’s mind is to customize. Attach personalized labels with your contact details and logo to the water or bubbly drink bottles you offer. 

Collaborate With Nearby Restaurants

Seek out co-branding options with a local restaurant, bakery, or deli. To attract prospective buyers, tiny local shops can display little savory snacks or cupcakes alongside their menus, business cards, or coupons.

Keep A Helper Nearby

Have a coworker, intern, or other person at the open house answer guests' inquiries, ask the proper leading questions, conduct personal guided tours, and watch for particularly interested buyers to follow up with. Get your helper to match up names on the sign-in sheet with interest levels, so you can customize follow-up for promising leads.

Contact A Lender

The lender can instantly pre-approve prospective purchasers and inform them of the monthly payment amount before they leave the property, allowing the buyer to ascertain their affordability immediately.

Prepare The Goody Bags

Prepare small bags to give with various treats that visitors can take with them. Gift bags are great open-house ideas for promotional products like refrigerator magnets or keychains. Add a packaged cookie from a local bakery and ask nearby shops for samples or coupons.

Make A Raffle

A raffle is a great way to get visitors to your open house. Think of items like fanny packs, baseball caps, duffel bags, or portable Bluetooth speakers that you can buy in large quantities and mark with your promotional logo. Local businesses may donate a prize if you put their advertising materials in the goodie bags or educational packets. Include a social media and invitation that mentions the raffle.

Holding Another Agent's Listing Open House

Listing agents usually welcome other agents' open houses, especially if they're across town. Ask for your open house signs to promote your brand in the community and provide the listing agent an enticing referral fee for every client you secure from the event. 

Organize Simultaneous Open Houses

See if two or three local real estate agents want to collaborate on a multiple-house open showing. Plan and advertise the event jointly and create buzz on your social media channels. 

Arrange A Preview For Agents Exclusively

Invite local real estate brokers to a private preview. In addition to networking with local industry people, this event can lead to future open house collaboration. 

Use Personalized Video Message

Send them a personalized video follow-up message with their name and an outline of the property's essential features. Messages can be sent after the open house if well-attended, but interested parties should be prioritized. 

Call Them Via Phone

Reconnect with every individual who was reached. Call them to inquire about their experience, or if they have given you their agent's business card, call the agent to find out what they had to say.

agents preparing baked cookies

Bake Cookies

This is one of the most underrated yet effective ways to make an open house more inviting: bake cookies. Instead of buying them, ask the current homeowner if you can use their oven for baking the goods. If you bake late enough, the house will still smell amazing when guests arrive. Just make sure you leave enough time for kitchen cleanup afterward.

Give A Thank You Card

A Thank You card can keep the property—and its owner's name and contact information—on a hot prospect's mind. Select a home-themed thank you card or one with a more profound message. You can even provide a photo of the deck view they loved to a Card. Whatever design you choose, write a note and immediately send the card an email or text message.

Bottom Line

Executing great open house ideas, such as freshly made cookies and virtual staging, can increase the attraction of your house to potential purchasers. In addition, giving customized follow-ups, partnering with nearby businesses, and offering branded drinks are among the best open house ideas to impress and engage buyers.

First impressions are crucial when closing the deal on a home. Before even entering a property, potential buyers frequently form opinions. The attractiveness of home staging takes into play at this point in the process. 

This post will share the best home staging tips and explain how important staging is when selling a home. 

Want to learn more about home staging? Check out these resources:

How Important Is Staging When Selling A Home?

It is not enough to make a house seem nice; home staging is also an effective marketing strategy that can influence how a prospective buyer perceives the space. When compared to properties that are either vacant or poorly displayed, homes that have been staged typically sell more quickly and at greater prices.

Staging a home can make buyers feel more emotionally connected to the property, resulting in a quicker sale. This is accomplished by highlighting the home's potential and assisting buyers in visualizing themselves living there. Below, you will find the best home staging tips that you can consider to get an excellent first impression of your prospective buyer.

The Best Home Staging Tips

Here are the ten best home staging tips you may consider

  1. Depersonalize & Eliminate Clutter

To make the space neutral and clean so prospective buyers can picture their belongings, it is imperative to remove personal belongings and extraneous clutter.

  1. Enhance Curb Appeal

The outside is one thing that potential buyers see. Enhance your home's curb appeal by adding new landscaping, keeping the lawn in good condition, and creating a welcoming doorway.

  1. Neutral Color Scheme

If you want to appeal to a wide variety of interests, keep a neutral color scheme for the walls and the furniture. This makes it easier for buyers to visualize the possibilities for their interior design concepts.

  1. Arranging Furniture

Furniture should be arranged in such a way as to enhance the flow of every space. It is essential to draw attention to the function of each room, whether it is a cozy spot for reading or an organized home office.

  1. Proportion & Size

Showcase the actual proportions of the spaces by utilizing furniture of a suitable size. A space can feel cramped by things that are too large, while a room can be made to look spacious by items that are too small.

woman pulling down curtain

  1. Enhancing Natural Light

Put natural light into the room by opening the curtains and blinds. Having well-lit areas makes them appear larger and more appealing.

  1. Accessorize Nicely

Use accessories such as carpets, artwork, and cushions to provide splashes of color and make the space more visually attractive. You should keep the space manageable, but remember that less is more.

  1. Emphasize Essential Features

You should highlight important features to attract attention to distinctive designs or selling points, like a comfortable fireplace or a breathtaking vista.

  1. Attractive & Appealing Ambiance

Adding fresh flowers or indoor plants into the design of a space may infuse it with vitality and create an atmosphere that is welcoming and comfortable.

  1. Staging For Model Rooms

Consider showcasing a room as a model room if the function is only apparent after some time. For instance, you could turn a space unused to its full potential into a home gym or a guest room serving something. 

Bottom Line

When selling your home, understand that staging is about presenting an appealing narrative that hooks potential buyers' hearts and minds. Above, you can understand how important is staging when selling a home. Adhering to our best home staging tips can help you foster a closer connection between a buyer and a property.

Most towns allow residents to eliminate large, bulky, or complex items on designated days of curbside clean-up (also known as bulk trash pickup).

And if you're living where this is implemented, here's how you can get the most out of it.

Don't Miss It

Find out the day when bulk trash pickup occurs. Some municipalities hold one monthly while others host spring or fall annual or biannual events. Meanwhile, larger cities may plan two or more local curbside clean-up days. 

Once you find out when yours takes place, set a reminder on your calendar so you won't miss it.

Segregate What You Can (And Can't) Put Out

The "what" is almost as crucial as the "when" regarding bulk trash day information. There are a lot of different regulations about what your community will accept. Some things are widely considered acceptable (carpets, lamps, swing sets), some are typically prohibited (propane tanks, concrete, hazardous chemicals, and many are in between -- which means others may allow them but others won't (small appliances, batteries, yard waste). The resident's responsibility is to do the proper thing with your trash.

 

Need tips on how to clean your home? Check out these resources:

curbside pickup

Organize Everything In Advance

Prepare for the clean-up day to get the most out of it. Do something about the attic and basement, clean up the garage, and look at what you have. Sort items into bags or piles labeled with Keep, Donate, and Discard. Then, put what's left to the curb, excluding anything that needs a recycling or hazardous trash disposal trip.

Develop A Depression Mindset

To be more specific, the Great Depression. Those who have survived challenging economic times are specialists at making do with what they have and trying to get by. Nowadays, many people like repurposing everyday items that would otherwise go to waste.

Donate

Put your trash on Facebook Buy Nothing groups, or Freecycle to find a good home, but be sure to learn about free-stuff etiquette first. 

You may also donate to thrift stores and charities. People without transportation or mobility benefit from many organizations' pickup services.

Organize A Community Swap Meet

A neighborhood swap meet is a perfect occasion to gather everyone. You can choose a weekend and a venue to "shop" other's pre-loved items and at the same time, get to know the people around you.

Organize A Neighborhood Yard Sale

Hold a neighborhood yard sale a week or two before curbside clean-up day. Collaboration benefits everyone because multi-household sales get a lot of traffic. If your neighbors are civic-minded, you could collectively sponsor a block party or a pocket park with perennials and a picnic table. Simple seller standards and a little planning will help your transaction succeed.

Adhere To Standard Procedures

Follow your town's trash and disposal guidelines to avoid accidentally breaking, leaking, scattering, tempting scavenging animals, or causing other issues. 

Take note also of the weight restrictions and item limits. Avoid mixing prohibited trash with allowed ones. Check what time you can put old stuff on your curb. Collectors of copper wiring break apart products like air conditioners, leaving chaos. Discard appliances last minute.

Be Ready For Pickers

Once you start to get rid of used items down the street, pickers, such as scavengers, salvagers, curb shoppers, scrappers, or gleaners, might come. So if there are items that aren't up for grabs, put them away from the curb to avoid confusion.

Express Some Kindness And Compassion

On curbside pickup eve, some wealthy would-be HGTVers shop your block. Treat them well—many of them make a livelihood from salvaging. If someone investigates your soon-to-be-ex-property, don't get offended or alert the police. Remember: Once you release something, you lose control over who gets it.

Here are more tips to help you with this:

Practice Curbside Etiquette

Salvagers should be respectful as well. If you see an abandoned dresser or bread maker that you want, pull over and turn on your hazards to avoid impeding traffic. Carefully search for items you want without making a mess.

After getting your valuables, put the other stuff aside or neatly back. Don't invade homes or complain about appliances' functionality. Finally, wave and thank neighbors on their porches or outside their windows.

Do you have more tips on how to do curbside cleaning? If yes, feel free to drop them in the comments!

When buying a home, two of the common terms you might hear a lot are "Annual Percentage Rates (or APR for short)" and "Interest rates." Now, while these two might sound like they mean the same, the truth is, there are a few differences that you should know.

So before you get a mortgage, let's learn how:

How Does Interest Rate And APR Work?

First thing first, let's learn what these two terms are.

Your interest rate is what you pay a lender when you borrow money for a set amount of time. The mortgage interest rate may be fixed throughout the loan or may vary with market rates. It is always expressed in percentages. 

On the other hand, an Annual percentage rate (also known as APR) is the total amount of money you pay for a loan, which includes the interest rate plus any other costs and fees that come with the loan, like private mortgage insurance (PMI), prepaid interest, some closing costs, mortgage points (also known as discount points), and other possible fees.

mortgage lender computing interest rate to homebuyer loan borrower

How To Calculate APR And Interest Rate?

Your APR is less under your control. Broker and origination fees are other variables that your lender controls and affect your annual percentage rate. 

By paying 20% down, you can avoid private mortgage insurance, but comparing lenders is ideal. Loan plans and APR rates should be compared. 

Your lender uses personal data to calculate interest. None of them utilizes the same interest formula although some mortgage lenders provide ten interest rates. 

Meanwhile, banks consider market interest rates and real estate economy conditions while computing your rate. Your mortgage lender can cut your interest rate in ways. Your rate will generally drop if you reduce your lender's risk. 

To get better rates, you have to improve your credit score, a three-digit statistic that shows lenders how you use credit. If you have good credit, it means you pay on time and don't borrow more than you can afford. 

Meanwhile, having low credit makes you riskier to lenders as it usually means you have a history of late payments, defaults, etc. As a result, you might get a higher interest rate from a lender or might not get approved at all. VA, FHA, and USDA loans can cut your interest rate.

A federally insured loan will reimburse your lender if your home is foreclosed. The interest rate on a government-backed loan may be lower than on a traditional loan. Remember that mortgage insurance will affect your payment, so consider all your options.

How Do Interest Rates and Annual Percentage Rates Differ?

Interest rates are the annual cost of borrowing money whereas APR includes additional expenses. Your APR will be larger than your interest rate because it has interest and other loan expenses. 

Your effective interest rate can also be considered your annual percentage rate (APR). Be sure to take into account both the interest rate and the APR while selecting the mortgage loan that is most suitable for your needs. 

The Bottom Line

Your APR comprises your interest rate and any other costs or fees you may be required to pay your lender. Your interest rate is the percentage of interest you pay on a loan. Discount points, private mortgage insurance, and brokerage fees are a few of the most popular extra costs. Your annual percentage rate (APR) represents the real interest rate you will pay on your loan after you get it.

Before a loan closes, the lender must disclose to you both the interest rate and the annual percentage rate. By maintaining your credit score and, potentially, selecting a government-backed loan, you can reduce your interest rate. Nevertheless, since the lender determines a lot of these fees, you need more control over your APR. That being stated, comparing comparable loan programs offered by other lenders is the greatest approach to getting a lower APR.

Learn more about mortgages here.

Thriving in real estate is easier said than done. It's more than just being able to finish a deal; it's being there and able to catch up with the changes.

This year, the real estate market is still being influenced by consumer behavior, the economy, and technology. So, to succeed in this cutthroat market, real estate agents need to be flexible, hungry for knowledge, and skilled in a wide range of competencies. In short, having a static skill set is no longer adequate.

It's similar to having a well-drawn map for your professional progression to know the essential talents required of a real estate agent. It involves finding a balance between the complexity of customer service, the science of market analysis, and the art of negotiation. The essential abilities that form the cornerstone of a prosperous real estate agent will be examined in the ensuing parts, offering direction to individuals keen to become experts in the field and thrive in the dynamic real estate industry.

Real Estate Agent Skills Set 

To negotiate the ever-changing real estate market, agents must be versatile. In 2024, real estate agent skills required interpersonal communication, market analysis, and digital skills. 

  1. Local Market Analysis: Agents must be comprehensively aware of the local market trends and others to give customers essential insights and suggestions.
  2. Building Connections and Networking: Establishing and keeping relationships is critical in acquiring new customers, making connections within an industry, and completing successful transactions.
  3. Sales and Marketing Proficiency: To successfully produce appealing listings, efficiently promote properties, and successfully negotiate deals, real estate agents need to possess strong sales and marketing abilities.
  4. Technology Utilization: When satisfying clients' expectations in this day and age, it is vital to have a working knowledge of real estate databases, virtual tour software, customer relationship management systems, and social media platforms.
  5. Time Management and Organization: Having the ability to prioritize activities, fulfill deadlines, and deliver undivided attention to customers in a fast-paced setting is made possible by agents who have effective time management and organizing abilities.
  6. Compliance with Legal and Ethical Standards: Agents must have a comprehensive awareness of real estate laws, regulations, and ethics to guarantee that transactions are carried out in a manner that is both compliant and in the best interest of their customers.

Knowing what skills are needed to be a real estate agent, the agents have the potential to prosper in the always-developing real estate sector. 

happy real estate holding an ipad

Things You Can Do To Improve Your Real Estate Agent Skills

There are several ways to improve, from technical expertise to soft skills in interpersonal interactions. For real estate agents looking to enhance their abilities, consider this essential tip:

  1. Embracing Innovations In Real Estate Technologies: To strengthen client relationships, be proactive and familiarize yourself with state-of-the-art real estate technology solutions, such as CRM systems and virtual tour software.
  2. Get Advanced Certifications: To broaden your experience, consider pursuing specific qualifications in eco-friendly housing, property management, or commercial real estate.
  3. Understand Digital Marketing Tactics: Learn how to use social media, email marketing, and SEO to promote listings and establish brands.
  4. Build Up Your Network: Share ideas, make contacts, and find new opportunities at local and national real estate events.
  5. Make A Personal Branding Investment: Build a strong personal brand that connects with your target market via internet channels and unified messaging.
  6. Follow Current Market Trends: To help clients make informed choices and stay current on regional and national industry developments.
  7. Boost Your Skills For Negotiation: Improve negotiation skills in seminars or workshops to win agreements and represent clients.
  8. Prioritize Client Experience: Adopting and incorporating customer service best practices into encounters will increase client satisfaction.
  9. Use The Principles Of Sustainable Real Estate: Learn about the latest market trends and sustainable housing techniques to satisfy the growing number of environmentally conscious consumers.
  10. Grow Your Financial Awareness: Understand real estate financing, investment techniques, and market research to help buyers and investors.

To stay competitive in real estate, agents must always learn what skills are needed to be a real estate agent and improve. 

Technological advances, market changes, and customer expectations change real estate dynamics, redefining agents' tactics.

In the first part of this blog, we've tackled the foremost digital transformation real estate trends in 2024. A dynamic revolution occurs at the junction of technology and real estate. 

For Part 2, we'll dive deeper into the developing trends driving real estate's future. 

1. Real Estate Blockchain For Security And Transparency

Blockchain technology could cause a "paradigm shift" in real estate transactions by lowering fraud and disputes, which can be a significant concern for the industry in this market.

These digital trends in real estate can potentially disrupt property registration, title deeds, and house rentals by making transactions more transparent and secure and speeding up clearance/approval processes.

2. Digital Engagement For Personalized Customer Experience

Digital marketers can personalize customer experiences by 2024 via chatbots, which can instantaneously answer product or service questions. Individuals can access private information without giving away their digital identity, including social media activity, browser history, etc., making the relationship more effective.

As we explore this era's trends, expect some digital trends in real estate to help and provide solutions for a sustainable future. In the age of data-driven decisions, the real estate industry is transforming how we purchase, sell, and enjoy properties. Explore the digital transformation real estate trends of 2024.

3. Intelligent Real Estate Chatbots For Better Communication

Businesses can automate communication by utilizing intelligent chatbots to help clients with all facets of the real estate industry, including selecting the ideal property, making reservations, completing financial transactions, and more.

The following are some of the digital trends in real estate that these chatbots can assist with:

4. Redefining The Function Of Agents And Brokers In The Era Of Digitalization And Data Analysis

In the real estate market, brokers and agents spend significant time searching for homes and assisting in acquiring deals, which they then pass on to their customers.

This consumes approximately forty to forty-five percent of their time, which can be substantially decreased by utilizing data-crunching technologies to locate properties and offers suitable for the customer's requirements.

man with biometrics

5. Real-Estate Biometrics For Customer Verification

When a customer needs to buy, sell, or rent a property, biometric technology offers fast and extremely precise methods for identity verification. This technology's most popular uses are facial recognition, fingerprint, and iris scanning, among other areas. 

These processes are fast and easy ways to verify someone's identification. By 2024, however, biometrics may not be widely used by real estate companies as the field is still in its initial stages.

6. Real Estate Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) Applications

Getting and keeping title documents in order is one of the biggest problems real estate businesses have. In addition to making things more complicated, this information can be challenging to track down and frequently has several entries for a single property.

The NFT application in real estate will make title deed tracking easier because each token is unique and cannot be replicated. Companies might utilize NFTs to maintain property records and lease agreements to avoid fraud and conflicts. As real estate businesses see the benefits of NFT, it will undoubtedly become widespread within 3-5 years.

7. Digital Tools To Improve Real Estate Customer Experience

Digital tools may improve customer experience in real estate by enabling transparency and personalization. Digital tools like chatbots, virtual reality, and augmented reality apps can help consumers learn about properties, lead them through sales, and make personalized recommendations.

In addition to guaranteeing increased client happiness, real estate companies may utilize these digital tools to obtain insightful data about the market and enhance their services accordingly.

8. Real Estate's Digital Future With No-Code

No-code tools assist non-technical business users in building dynamic web apps fast. In 2024, no-code technologies will allow real estate companies to create smart dashboards to track internet leads, revenue, and more.

Companies can improve customer experience by providing thorough property information, leasing or buying homes, etc. No-code application development platforms may become essential to the real estate market in the next five years because they allow non-technical business users to design bespoke apps.

Bottom Line

The digital trends in real estate will play a major role in the industry. Companies that embrace these technologies early on have a higher chance of making a name for themselves in the market because of the trend toward digitalization.

Adopt new digital trends as soon as possible to ensure your company stays ahead of the curve. Keeping up with these developments is crucial for companies looking to remain relevant as the real estate sector adjusts to the digital age.

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