Time It Right: When to Build a Home
To build or not to build … Can anyone answer this question? Whenever someone has a big decision to make they typically turn to family, friends and of course the Internet for answers. Does building a new home qualify in the category of a “big decision?” You bet it does and in the real estate market of the past several years, the question of “when” has become perhaps more prevalent than “if.” Here are a few things to consider when deciding if the time is right for you to build. Opportunity Opportunity is just one variable that always gets great consideration when the time to buy or build a new home question is asked. We have all heard unlimited stories of the buying opportunities in the purchase market today due to excess and available inventory....
Read MoreTips for Designing a Great Family Room
After the kitchen, the most popular room in most homes is the family room. It can function as a media room, a game room, a music room, a reading room—and often a homework area too. Because this room is so lived in, there are lots of family rooms that could use a serious makeover. But where do you start? Start by utilizing a design that reflects the interests of the family members. Use photos, children’s artwork, mementos, maps, antiques and art collections to tell your family’s story in this room. Consider having frames that can open to switch out kids’ artwork or to showcase the latest photos from a family trip. Keep it personal, yet practical. Here are tips on how to create a family room that is both functional and attractive: 1. Comfortable...
Read MoreUse Lighting to Makeover a Room
Regardless of the size and shape of a space, lighting matters. From fresh and airy, to intimate and cozy, lighting sets the tone of a room and should be an integral part of its design and layout. Ever wonder how designers make the rooms you see in magazines or on decorating shows look so good? It doesn’t always depend on paint colors or fabric choices. A little light can go a long way. And you can make dramatic changes by doing something as easy as switching out a light bulb. So if you want to give a room a makeover, or just freshen it up a bit, use these tips from the lighting pros at SYLVANIA to brighten things up. Types of Lighting Not only does a good lighting plan make a room more inviting, it also makes it more functional. To create a good lighting...
Read MoreWhat to Ask When Shopping for Homeowners Insurance
Being an informed consumer means not only reading your homeowners insurance policy closely, but also asking experts what constitutes the right type, and amount, of coverage you need for your home, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). A qualified insurance agent or insurance company representative can guide you in your choices. Here are six basic questions the I.I.I. advises everyone to ask before buying or renewing a homeowners insurance policy: How much would it cost to rebuild my home in its current location in the event of a total loss? Your homeowners insurance policy should cover the cost of building a new home from scratch. Your insurance agent or insurance company representative will have knowledge of your neighborhood, and...
Read MoreWhat Every New Agent Needs Right Out of the Gate
By Tricia Andreassen If you’re a new agent just getting started in the real estate industry, the following elements are crucial as you set yourself up to hit the ground running. 1. Secure your own domain name. It’s important to have a domain name that you can use with your company-provided site or a site of your own. Domain names allow you to start branding from the beginning so that you have a solid foundation in place from the get-go. 2. Make sure you have a stand-alone website that can easily grow with you. Ask your Web provider if you can add unlimited pages, photos, videos, social media elements and even your own links and PDFs. This allows you to have a solid foundation in place even if you end up switching companies down the road. 3. Have your own IDX...
Read More3 Home-Renovation Projects for Impact and Investment
If you’re like many homeowners, the start of the new year finds you ready to finally tackle those home-improvement projects that have lingered on your wish list. But where do you begin? First, prioritize those renovations that will have a maximum impact, both in terms of aesthetics and investment values. Also prioritize the projects that will enhance the livability and enjoyment of your home. Next, decide whether or not it makes sense to handle these projects on your own or call in a professional for help. According to the experts at Sears Home Services, while taking on home remodeling yourself can seem daunting , enlisting the right help can make the process simple and seamless. Here are three areas of the home to put at the top of your list this year: The...
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Bev Schow
DRE #01867018
As a highly energetic and creative broker/agent and stock broker, Bev Schow has sold over 80 million dollars of real estate, is a member of the President’s Circle (the top 3% of all sales associates in the country), and holds both CRB and GRI designations. Read More.
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