Sandy's Blog

Winter brings bitter winds and dipping temperatures. But perhaps the most chilling result of wintry weather is the marked increase in home injury during this season.Carbon Monoxide Precaution: Heating Systems and Gas AppliancesInstall at least one smoke alarm and CO alarm on every level of your h...

Home Sales2004/2005 43% of Buyers came from open houses2007 3% of Buyers came from open houses, 80% of Buyers came from the internet and other REALTORS Prelist Home InspectionEvaluates and identifies potential and actual problems, gives the seller time to repair or disclose to a buyer upfront to ...

Tackle messy rooms one room at a time. For every new purchase, get rid of something old. Have the kids get involved by making cleaning up fun. Imagine what the room looks like clean and it will help you acheive the goal. Teach your kids how to sort. Go through mail when you get it and throw out t...

The air quality in your home can play a major role in your overall health. Here are some suggestions to make your home healthier:Get rid of fumes and particles trapped inside your home by regularly opening the windows. Remove your shoes to avoid tracking pesticides and lawn chemicals inside. Use ...

Central air conditioning 74% 2 car garage or larger 57% Walk-in closet in master bedroom 53% Backyard/play area 50% Cable/Satellite TV ready 46% High-speed Internet access 40% Separate shower in master/main bath 36% Patio 36% Fencing 36% Home less than 10 years old 33% Source: 2007 NAR Profile of...

Equity:  Equity is the difference between the value of your home and the amount you owe on the mortgage.  As you make payments on the house, the equity increases. Typically values increase over time and your equity also increases.   Savings:  Money you pay for rent is gone forever.  Purchasing a ...

Each year some ambious home sellers try to sell their home without the assistance of a licensed real estate professional. It often turns out to be an experience they find less than gratifying. The numbers tell the true story.Last year 12 percent of sellers decided to sell on their own (For Sale B...

The market is flooded with housing inventory and if you want to sell your home you want to make your home stand out. Staging or redesigning might be the answer.More often than not, effective staging can be achieved by decluttering and relocating existing furniture and accessories throughout the h...

*Stove: Cream of tartar & vinegar paste*Weeds: Vinegar & lemon juice*Carpet stains: 3 tablespoons dish soap, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon ammonia, 3/4 cup water, mix to foamy consistancy and use only the foam on carpet*Clothing stains: automotive hand cleaner (white)*Silver: 1 tablespoo...

Make a good first impression  Your entryway sets the tone, so clean the front door and polish the brass door knocker. If your welcome mat has lost its luster, replace it with a new one.Wash the windows  On sunny days, the strong southern light can reveal dirt and grime you might not have noticed....