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Your home’s outdoor space isn’t just the lawn and garden. While that’s certainly a large part of it, there are also elements that can add to its curb appeal and be used for entertaining — things like walkways, patios and more.

Creating a beautiful (and usable) outdoor area requires a well-informed planning of both landscaping and hardscaping. While landscaping focuses on the greenery and plant life, hardscaping focuses on natural or artificial inanimate elements.

Use these hardscaping and landscaping strategies to keep your property looking its best.

• Create harmony. Landscaping and hardscaping might be two different areas of design, but creating a balance between the two is crucial. Here’s an example: If you build a paved outdoor kitchen area, consider incorporating a built-in herb garden or a living wall. If you’re creating an expansively landscaped garden, add in harder elements like fountains, tiered brick planters and paved walkways.
  
  
• Consider your climate. The local climate should be a big factor in your endeavors. If you’re in a dry area, for instance, focus on using drought-tolerant plants and gravel for walkways, which will allow any rain to quickly reach your soil. On the other hand, in moister areas, lush foliage with strategic hardscaping can be beautiful while prioritizing proper drainage.
  
  
• Keep curb appeal and property value in mind. Don’t forget that you may eventually want to sell your home, so the curb appeal, marketability and value of the choices you make matter. If you’re curious about how a project could impact your home’s value, get in touch before getting started so that we can discuss how updates might affect your future home sale.

Reach out if you have any questions about property value or other real estate topics.

Subfreezing or sweltering hot temperatures might make for uncomfortable outdoor excursions, but when controlled, these extreme temperatures may actually have some notable health benefits.

And, with the right additions, you can even enjoy those benefits right from the comfort of your own home. Just don’t forget to consult with your doctor before trying any new wellness practices.

Are you interested in the perks of hot and cold therapy in your home? Here are four amenities you might want to check out.

Infrared Sauna: These saunas use infrared light to heat your skin and may be able to help with circulation, relieve pain and boost immune function. They make great additions to home gyms, and their use is often paired with cold plunges.

Cold Plunges and Ice Baths: Cold-plunge tubs are said to improve your mental clarity, reduce soreness and inflammation and help your immune system. They can easily be added to an existing bathroom or guesthouse, as long as there’s space and a water source.

Cryotherapy Chambers: Whole-body cryotherapy is another low-temperature option that could have health advantages, including lowering stress and promoting better sleep. A number of companies offer at-home cryotherapy chambers for you to purchase and install. 

Steam Rooms and Showers: If you want something on a smaller scale, installing a steam room or steam shower may be a good heat therapy option. They can open up your airways, speed up muscle recovery and soften your skin, among other benefits.

Amenities like these don’t just make a healthier lifestyle possible for you and your family — they can also improve your property’s value and marketability.

Do you want more guidance on homeownership and home value? Reach out anytime.

If you have one or more rental properties, you know that their existence doesn’t automatically bring in tenants.

While rentals can be a profitable source of passive income, your properties won’t fill themselves. To see returns, you’ll need to make concerted efforts to find tenants and reduce vacancies for the long haul.

Online marketing can be a great way to streamline this process and get the word out about your properties efficiently.

Here are just a few of the online marketing tools you should focus on using:

• Shareable Visuals: Simply posting your property to Facebook or Instagram often isn’t enough. We’ll work together to make sure your listings and posts have stunning images, videos and other content that users will want to engage with and share. This will help increase the property’s visibility.
• Search Engine Optimization: Keep SEO top of mind when posting anything about your rental. Make sure to include important key terms: the city it’s located in, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and any related hashtags (e.g., #BostonApartments or #HoustonRentals). You want your posts to find the right audience, and using SEO can help make that happen.
• Paid Advertising: Using paid ads on search engines and social media is key if you want to make sure your property reaches not just any audience, but the right audience. You can target certain locations, budgets and more to get your property listings in front of qualified potential tenants.
• Chatbots: A chatbot could help you answer questions from interested renters without any hassle. You can set one up to provide basic info like pet policies, square footage, pricing and other important details, no matter the time of day.

If you’re ready to look for your next investment property, get in touch today.

Updating your landscaping isn’t the only way to include nature in your home’s aesthetic. You can incorporate nature into your property’s interior design and architecture, too. It will likely improve your home’s look, efficiency and overall marketability in the process.

Are you planning to refresh or renovate a property this year? Here are four nature-inspired trends to consider when you do.

• Make sustainable choices. Work with a design professional to source natural materials that are sustainably harvested. They can help you find reclaimed wood, bamboo, natural stone and more. You can also shop for antique and vintage furniture and accents, especially items made of wood and glass. Finally, having a green roof is a great way to incorporate nature into your whole home design while keeping it energy efficient.
• Opt for biophilic design. This is a concept that aims to connect people with natural elements while indoors. You can appeal to all five senses: the sound of a water fountain, the aromas and tastes of an herb garden, and panoramic views and nice breezes from large windows. Having an aquarium indoors or bird feeders outside of a window can also help you feel more in touch with nature.
• Create indoor-outdoor spaces. Indoor spaces that seamlessly fade into outdoor ones are another trendy way to integrate the natural world. Maybe you want a breakfast nook that opens to a patio where you can dine alfresco on temperate days, or perhaps your living space could have glass accordion doors leading to an outdoor entertaining area.
• Choose earthy hues. Select nature-inspired options for your color palette. Shades of green, blue, brown and yellow can all evoke the great outdoors and make for a relaxing, natural aesthetic.

Reach out if you’d like to discuss your real estate needs and goals for 2025.

A great outdoor space is critical, both for your property’s market value and for your enjoyment.

But the terms to describe what outdoor features you want can be confusing. So, whether you’re buying a new home or investing in updates on your current one, it’s important to be clear when choosing your outdoor setup.

Not sure what features you might be interested in? Compare these five options:

• Balcony: A balcony can be a great option if you have an upstairs bedroom or living area with a great view. They’re popular in more urban areas, too, and can be a nice spot to enjoy your coffee, read a book or just take in the scenery.
• Deck: This is a type of raised or elevated platform, often made of wood, that extends off your property into your backyard. Decks are often used as an entertaining space, and you can install one around a pool or hot tub, too.
• Patio: Patios are a floor-like extension of your home to add usable space to your yard. They typically incorporate tile, stone or brick to complement the home. You can use them as entertaining or dining areas and even add coverings to protect from the elements.
• Lanai: A lanai is technically a type of porch, but it originated in Hawaii and is typically enclosed or screened-in, offering protection from the heat in warmer climates. 
• Veranda: This is what some call a wrap-around porch. A veranda extends a few feet in front of your home and around it, and it’s generally surrounded by railings.

As for detached structures, you can also look into gazebos and pergolas as a separate entertaining space.

Are you looking for a new home with the perfect outdoor space for your lifestyle? Get in touch for help with your search.

The right lighting (and fixtures) can truly transform a space — adding ambience, mood and character all at once.

Lighting can help establish an aesthetic, highlight a room’s best features, help you accomplish tasks and, when used strategically, even make a space look larger than its square footage.

If it’s time to give your home’s lighting a revamp, here are some guidelines to help you get started.

Understand warm vs. cool lights. Warm lighting is the inviting type you’ll find in a romantic restaurant or a cozy boutique hotel. Cool lighting is more like the brightness you’ll see in a department store, school or hospital. Make sure you choose lights that align with the aesthetic and mood you’re aiming for in each room.

Let purpose define placement. Know what purpose a light is going to serve before installing it. Will it highlight a unique piece of art or be used practically (maybe for reading or cooking)? Is it meant to be the main light source for an entire room? This will help you choose the best placement for the light, as well as what type of bulb and fixture will work best.

Focus on the fixtures. Choosing the right type of fixture often depends on placement. For example, track lights are best on the ceiling in high-use spaces like kitchens. Wall-mounted fixtures (like sconces) can be an efficient choice for hallways, while individual floor and table lamps are a great option for areas that are often used by multiple people at once, like a study, living room or bedroom.

Don’t forget natural light. Artificial light isn’t the only powerful design tool. You can also use natural light — or the lack of it — strategically with your window placement and choice of curtains, drapery and blinds.

Are you looking for a new property to make your own? Reach out today.

Buying a home in a different city or state is fairly common these days. You might need to buy a new place ahead of a big career change, or maybe you’re investing in a vacation getaway in a different climate.

Whatever the reason, a distant home purchase can be a little more challenging. That’s where a great agent can come in handy to be your eyes and ears on the ground.

Are you planning a long-distance home purchase this year? Let’s work together and follow these steps to make it go as smoothly as possible.

• Use all the tools. These days, there are lots of ways to view a property. You can get a 3D walk-through, video tours, aerial footage from drones and much more. Use all of these technologies to your advantage to learn as much about the home as possible.
• Research properties thoroughly. We’ll make sure to research not only the property you’re eyeing, but also the neighborhood and community around it. Together, we can find out what traffic patterns are like, what local businesses are around and more so you know that it will fit your lifestyle and goals.
• Use service providers you trust. Having an agent you trust is critical, but you’ll need other helpers along the way, too — including a thorough home inspector and a great title agent. Choose these professionals carefully, and reach out if you need help finding an expert.
• Always plan ahead. If you won’t be moving in right away or if you’ll be renting the property out, make arrangements ahead of time. Get the utilities set up remotely, and hire a property manager to take care of the home (and handle bookings) while you’re away.

Get in touch if you’re ready to search for your next property.

Are you looking for ways to revamp your home? Maybe it’s time to switch up the color palettes you’re using in different spaces.

As you know, color trends come and go. One year, minimalistic, neutral hues are all the rage, and the next, designers are into tones that are inspired by nature.

If you want to keep your home up to date on the latest color trends, take a look at what the pros see coming for 2025.

• Bold Blues: A number of paint companies have touted brilliant, rich blues as their color of the year. They can be great for supplementary items (think throw pillows, artwork or an accent wall) or serve as the backdrop for an entire space where you want a more luxe, elegant look.
• Ebony and Onyx: These refined dark tones are a great way to up the ante in your kitchen or bathroom. Picture sleek black cabinets or black and white tiling on walls or flooring.
• Ruby Red: Ruby is the perfect shade for creating a living space with a cohesive aesthetic and plenty of visual interest. Choose patterned rugs and intricate window dressings with tinges of ruby and furnishings in cherrywood or other reddish materials.
• Cozy Browns: Soft brown hues can be a nice addition to bedrooms, where a muted, calming palette is desired. They mix with virtually any other colors and materials, too. Consider wicker furniture for a more getaway-inspired feel, or opt for heavy-duty wooden items for a warmer setting.
• Honey: This striking, sandy shade mixes the pep of yellow with the zen of brown and makes for the perfect palette upon which to build. It’s great for dining rooms and breakfast nooks, as well as on patios and other outdoor areas.

Reach out if you have questions or want to discuss real estate market trends.

Wishing you a happy holiday season and prosperous new year.

Please reach out if there's anything you need in the coming weeks.

Whether you have a vacation home that will sit empty over the winter or you’re planning to spend the colder months away from your primary residence, it’s important to prepare your property for that period of vacancy.

Proper preparation can help prevent repairs and insurance increases, stave off theft and ensure your home remains in pristine condition while you’re away.

Are you ready to prepare your home for winter? Here’s where to start.

• Hire a local property manager. You want someone who can physically visit the property regularly to check on it. They can also manage landscapers, housekeeping and other staff you might have on-site while the home is vacant. Do your research and ask around to find someone reliable and trustworthy.
• Install (or upgrade) a security system. Having a video security system allows you to monitor your property from anywhere in the world, and you can also invest in biometric or other highly secure tools. Additionally, you could hire a local security service to drive by the home several times daily.
• Move your valuables. If you have valuables on the property, move them to a well-hidden safe or a safe-deposit box at your local bank. Consider all of the jewelry, artwork and any other valued or one-of-a-kind items you keep in the home.
• Go remote. You can install devices that allow you to remotely control your property’s systems. There are apps to control your thermostat, turn sprinklers (and lights) on and off, monitor for water leaks and more.

Do you need help finding your next home or winter getaway? Get in touch today.

Lifestyle creep (also known as lifestyle inflation) can happen to anyone, but for those with higher incomes, it can happen more subtly — and more significantly.

What is this phenomenon, exactly? It’s when you start spending more on something discretionary until that higher expenditure becomes the norm. Soon, you may find yourself spending much more than you used to without your income rising in step.

It can impact what you have left to invest or save for retirement, and it can lead to financial struggles down the line. Here’s what you can do to try to prevent lifestyle creep from sneaking up on you.

Learn to recognize the signs. If lifestyle inflation is impacting your finances, you might start seeing higher credit card balances or need to move money between accounts more often. You can use spending tracker apps or ask your financial advisor if they’ve noticed drastic changes in your statements.

Determine where creep is worst. Where have your spending habits changed the most? Maybe you’re spending more on high-end restaurants or your vacation budgets have doubled. Knowing where things have escalated the most can help you get a better handle on what strategy you need to employ moving forward.

Know your priorities. Make sure you’re not spending aimlessly. Collaborate with a financial planner to cement your goals, and create timelines for those goals so that you’re dispersing your money appropriately.

Check in regularly. Automating your finances may be convenient, but be sure that you continue to check on your accounts and talk to your financial advisor regularly. This will help you spot spending trends early, before they can lead to further problems.

If you’re interested in how real estate can fit into your long-term financial goals, reach out today.

There’s no hard-and-fast definition for what makes a “luxury” home. Some assume any property above a certain price point is luxury, but that’s hardly the case (especially since home prices can vary widely from one part of the country to the next).

If you’re wondering what gives a luxury home that special feel, there are generally a few things they have in common. Keep an eye out for these five features the next time you’re researching properties.

• High-End Materials: Instead of builder grade, you can expect high-quality materials. From countertops to cabinet hardware to flooring, many of these luxe materials are customized to the home’s aesthetic and layout.
• Location: Depending on your preferences, a prime location might mean having a large lot in an in-demand area, a downtown residence near local hot spots or a place with amazing views of nature or the city. In short: a location that stands out from the pack.
• Sustainability: Many luxury properties these days are built with sustainability and efficiency in mind. These qualities can help your home operate more effectively in the long run and often include elegant design choices, too.
• Architectural Detail: You may find luxury properties to have unique architecture and layouts. Bold choices, high ceilings and elements that are visibly special to the property can make a home feel extravagant.
• Niche Spaces: Homes serve many purposes, and having designated spaces can be important. Features like an outdoor kitchen, a fitness center, a zen garden, a library or even a pickleball court can elevate a property.

Are you ready to buy your next luxury property? Get in touch today for expert help.

Rental properties can be great sources of passive income, as long as you can keep them occupied.

But a vacancy — especially an extended one — can make your property just another obligation. The taxes, bills, maintenance and more can add up, with no way to offset the costs.

With these tips, you can do your best to avoid rental vacancies and keep your investment income flowing.

• Be flexible. Not everyone needs or wants a standard one-year lease. Offering other options, like six-month, 18-month or two-year leases may open the door to more potential renters.
• Allow pets. Pet owners love their animals and want a home that’s as welcoming to their furry friends as it is to them. You may also keep tenants for longer if you allow them to keep their pets around.
• Keep up with maintenance. Don’t let the home’s upkeep fall by the wayside. Make sure everything is in working order and that repairs are made promptly. This should greatly improve the experience for your tenants.
• Make some upgrades. Pick a few outdated or highly used areas to update. Installing newer appliances in the kitchen or replacing flooring throughout the house could attract tenants and may even allow you to increase the rental price. 
• Allow personalization. Tenants want to be able to make a place their own. They’ll appreciate being able to hang artwork or even paint the walls their preferred color. You can ask them to repaint with neutral tones before they move out in the lease.
• Improve the curb appeal. If the rental is a single-family home or townhome, make it look like somewhere tenants want to live. Paint the front door, get some landscaping done, and capture the new curb appeal in your listing photos.

Reach out if you need help marketing to potential tenants or finding your next property.

Minimalism had its time in the spotlight. These days, maximalism is all the rage, with a bolder, more-is-more approach that can really take your home’s aesthetic up a notch.

Maximalist design blends colors, shapes, patterns and textures, layering styles and going big with accessories and art. But it’s not for everyone, and it’s not as simple to achieve as one might think.

If you’re considering maximalist decor but don’t want things to be chaotic or cluttered, here’s how to be deliberate about your design choices.

Start with a common theme. Love everything vintage? Choose vintage artwork, furnishings and accessories to make that the theme of a room. Interested in the great outdoors? Focus on nature-themed items, like hanging plants or wood furnishings. Having a common thread through your space can pull together disparate elements to make them feel cohesive.

Think upward. Cramming too much into a room can make it feel cramped and cluttered. Instead, think upward with your maximalist elements. Hang light fixtures or plants from the ceiling, layer rows of floating shelves along the wall or add floor-to-ceiling bookshelves you can use to display books, artwork and curiosities.

Be smart about combinations. You don’t have to choose mismatched colors or furnishings for a maximalist aesthetic. Simpler choices, like varying textures or fabrics, can make a big difference. You can even vary your decor by weight, combining heavier items and materials with lighter ones.

Need help finding a home that fits your style? Get in touch so we can start the search.

If you’re making some updates around the house, you might want to hire a professional, especially if it’s a large or complicated project. But do you know how to choose the right contractor for the job?

When you need to hire a local contractor to work on your home improvements — especially if it’s the first time — ask each candidate these questions to ensure you choose the right one.

1. Are you licensed and insured?
   You always want to make sure a contractor has the proper licensing in your state and that they’re properly insured in case something goes wrong. If they don’t have these things, it creates a big liability for you.
   
   
2. Do you have references?
   Ask if you can have contact information for past customers in addition to looking up online reviews. You’ll want to find out what previous clients thought of the contractor’s work and whether they would use their services again.
   
   
3. Do you have a portfolio?
   The contractor should also be able to show you their past work, particularly projects similar to the one they’d be doing for you. For example, if you’re renovating your kitchen, ask for pictures of their recent kitchen projects to get a feel for their style and skill level.
   
   
4. How do you charge?
   Do they require a deposit? Will you pay in stages while the work is being completed? Do they expect you to pay upfront? You’ll want this in writing as part of the contract.
   
   
5. Do they have a regular team?
   It’s important to know who you’re working with and who will be in and out of your home. You may also want to verify the licensing and experience of any subcontractors they’re bringing in.

Do you want to find a new home or investment property? Get in touch today.

Buying a new home can be exciting, but it’s best not to do it on a whim — no matter how much you love the property.

If you want to ensure you’re making a smart investment and contributing to your long-term wealth goals, it’s paramount that you go into the process with a plan.

Are you considering buying another home soon? Here are some ways to prepare before taking action, then we can discuss the next steps together.

1. Know the numbers. If you’re not planning to pay in cash, get preapproved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of what price range and monthly payment you’ll be working with. It’s also a good idea to prepare for any post-closing costs the property will entail, including property taxes, utilities, landscaping and housekeeping services.
   
   
2. Have lists of your must-haves and deal breakers. As you may know, establishing what you don’t want is just as important as knowing what you do want. Make one list of what boxes a home must check before it’s a worthwhile investment for you, and then make one list of features or issues that you definitely would not want in a property.
   
   
3. Think about the future. The best home purchases are ones that offer you a return on your investment and contribute to your long-term wealth. Look carefully at housing market indicators so you can buy where values will grow. You should consider future developments in the area, the strength of the job market and more.

Reach out if you need real estate expertise to help you find your next property.

Your home should be many things: a place to relax, entertain guests, get work done and explore your hobbies — as long as you have the right space for all of it.

Do you have one or more rooms dedicated to your favorite activities? If not, it may be time to update your property to cater to individual and shared hobbies.

Here are four ways to create more space for your interests at home.

1. Carve out a dedicated area. Your hobbies should have a dedicated space, even if it’s a small one. Consider turning a spare room into a crafting area or library with plush seating. A guest house or detached garage could become a dance or music studio.
   
   
2. Get clever with decor. Supplies related to your hobbies can make for great decor. If you collect vehicles, line the walls of your garage with license plates and old car or motorcycle parts. Do you love movies? Get light fixtures made from old film reels for your home theater.
   
   
3. Opt for multipurpose furnishings. Choosing furniture that can do double duty can help you keep the room uncluttered. Ottomans with built-in storage, a chest of drawers you can use as a desktop or nesting furniture can all be functional without taking up a lot of space.
   
   
4. Invest in organization tools. Hobbies can come with a lot of stuff. Compact, aesthetically pleasing organizers  — like woven baskets in the closet, floating shelves to leverage vertical space and drawer dividers — can help you keep things right where you need them.

If your current home doesn’t have the right amenities, get in touch so we can find you a new property that better suits your needs.

Selling an investment property isn’t always the same as selling a primary residence.

It’s important to time the sale right, and there are other concerns to think about — like taxes, market conditions and any tenants that may be involved in the process, too.

Are you on the fence about selling a rental property or other real estate investment? Here’s what to consider before you take action.

Market Conditions: Think about rental trends, tenant or buyer demand, property values and the overall costs associated with the local market. Keep in mind that if you have a vacation property, pricing may be highly seasonal, so timing your sale properly will be critical. Reach out so we can look at the data together.

Taxes: Property taxes are often a concern with investment properties, but you should also consider capital gains taxes before you sell, as they could reduce your profits. In some cases, you may be able to defer the taxes with a Section 1031 "like-kind" exchange. Consult a tax professional if this is something you’re thinking of doing.

Tenants and Bookings: If you currently have long-term tenants or short-term guests booked, you’ll need to think about how they will be affected by your sale. You’ll need to give tenants notice, cancel future bookings or make sure to sell to an investor who plans to keep the business running. Talk to a real estate attorney if you’re not sure what your lease or booking contracts dictate.

Improvements and Repairs: Before you decide to sell, make sure you’re prepared (in terms of finances and time) to make necessary fixes and updates. Taking this step could even mean a higher listing price.

Get in touch if you need assistance with your next property sale.

It’s important to have a protection plan in place for your assets — not only for safeguarding your wealth but also to ensure continued financial stability for your loved ones for years to come.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to protect your properties and other assets. You may need several of them for comprehensive financial protection.

Here are some helpful ways to secure your hard-earned assets.

• Prenuptial Agreement: Known as a "prenup" for short, this legal document completed prior to marriage can help you establish who gets what properties, accounts and other assets if you and your spouse separate.
• Irrevocable Trust: Trusts are a good way to shield your assets from liability or claims from creditors. You can also use trusts to pass on assets to your heirs.
• Limited Liability Company: You can use a limited liability company (LLC) to protect business assets or investment properties from liability by keeping them separate from your personal assets. There may be tax advantages to working under an LLC as well.
• Insurance: Depending on your specific risks, you may want umbrella insurance, which covers excess liability and can protect you from certain lawsuits. An umbrella policy may be particularly useful for anyone who owns rental properties.
• Joint Ownership: Establishing your properties as joint-owned with rights of survivorship can ensure the properties you own go to the right person in the event of your passing without probate. It can also simplify property ownership for your heirs.
• Offshore Trusts and Business Entities: These options can help you separate your assets from domestic liability and creditors. Make sure you consult a financial professional if you’re considering moving assets this way, as you will need to comply with certain laws.

Are you searching for a new property to add to your portfolio? Let’s talk.

Historic homes (generally defined as being more than 50 years old) can have a lot of character, particularly compared to many homes being constructed today. But while they may have unique features and one-of-a-kind style, these properties can also come with significant challenges.

Are you eyeing a house built more than half a century ago? Consider the pros and cons of historic homes before making an offer.

Pros:

• You’ll have a unique home. Historic homes were built with a less-standardized approach than today’s houses are, and they often have character from years of residents who made the home their own.
• You may qualify for new tax deductions. There are federal, state and local tax incentives available for those who preserve historic properties.
• You may get a better return on your investment. Homes in historic districts tend to hold (and grow) their value because they’re often located in established communities.
• You’re helping to preserve history. By purchasing and caring for or restoring a historic home, you’re keeping a piece of history intact for future generations.

Cons:

• It may be harder to get a mortgage and insurance policy. If the home is in poor condition, it may not get approved for traditional financing. Insurers may also be more hesitant to cover the property.
• It will likely need more work. You will probably face more repairs and may need to make more renovations before moving in.
• There may be strict regulations on the property. This holds especially true if the home has been designated as historic by the local government.
• You may have to make sacrifices. Historic homes may not have all the modern features you’re used to (or even the foundation to add them). You might find yourself making trade-offs.

Reach out if you want help finding your next property — historic or otherwise.

Hosting an event can be both rewarding and stressful — especially when it takes place on your property.

You have to consider permitting and insurance, and you’ll be screening vendors, caterers and entertainers. Plus, there’s a whole host of other tasks to stay on top of before, during and after the event.

Are you hoping to host a fundraiser, wedding or other event on your property in the future? It’s never too early to start planning.

Here’s a guide to making your event a success.

• Work with an experienced event planner. Ask for referrals and look at reviews before you hire a planner. They can help you hire staff for the event and ensure things go as planned.
• Choose your theme. If you’re having a themed party, deciding early means you can integrate your ideas into every step of the planning process, allowing for a cohesive event.
• Have backup plans. Is your event going to be outdoors? Make sure you have a few alternate spaces, just in case the weather is uncooperative.
• Talk to your insurer. Hosting on your property can be a liability for injury and damages, so talk to your agent about increasing your coverage beforehand. This can help protect you both legally and financially.
• Check out vendors and entertainers yourself. Reviews can only go so far. Make sure to schedule tastings for caterers, and attend an event hosted by the musical act you’re considering. This way, you can evaluate their overall fit with your goals.
• Research local permits. Contact the local government to see what permits may be required for your event. You might need a noise permit, health permit, event permit or other approval before you can host.

Searching for a new place that’s perfect for event hosting? Get in touch today for expert help.

Your home’s exterior should make a great first impression, from landscaping to door color and design.

But once you step inside, it’s the entryway that makes an impact.

What does yours tell guests? Does it wow visitors and hint at the elegance that’s to come? Does it show your personality and unique style?

If not, it may be time for a makeover so you can give your home the entryway it deserves.

Bring the outside in. You can have flowers on a side table or a large potted plant for greenery. Consider installing a front door with windows that allow in natural light, or you could opt for a skylight above the entryway.

Incorporate history and culture. Bring in elements that reflect your home’s history, region or architectural style. You can do this with patterned wallpaper, vintage furnishings, a lush rug or locally made items. 

Add artwork. Artwork can be a great way to set the mood for your house from the get-go. Hang it on the wall, set a piece on a console table or set it on floating shelves. Go for mixed media, too, with canvases, photographs, sculptures and more.

Create a moment. Add something to the entry that may give visitors pause — some sort of statement piece. It could be an exceptional light fixture, an awe-inspiring work of art or a unique mirror or tapestry.

Go with the flow. Make sure the entryway flows seamlessly into the rest of your home. Maybe the paint color is a lighter version of the next room’s hue, or its artwork is from the same collection or artist. Create little connections that tie the whole home together.

If you’d like more guidance on real estate topics, please reach out.

Before you sell your home, it’s important to be in tune with what today’s buyers are looking for — and this is even more essential in the highly competitive luxury market.

Knowing what buyers want can help us price your property appropriately, and it gives you the opportunity to make smart upgrades that could potentially make your home more marketable.

Are you planning to sell? Here are some home features that can help you compete in a hot luxury real estate market.

• Unique Finishes: Nontraditional finishes are big this year, particularly terrazzo floors and soapstone countertops. Homes with terrazzo elements may even sell for 2.6% more, according to a Zillow report.
• Smart Technology: Installing smart tech can make a home more marketable to buyers. Video doorbells, whole-home audio systems, leak detection technology and smart thermostats are just a few options to consider.
• Entertainment Features: Homes that have built-in entertaining and activity areas are popular with today’s buyers, particularly those who like to host guests. Think outdoor kitchens, pickleball courts, putting greens, saltwater pools, movie theaters and similar items.
• Chef-Level Kitchens: Leveled-up kitchens are a big deal, too, especially steam ovens, professional-grade appliances and pizza ovens. The recent Zillow report shows that they could potentially add more than 5% to your home’s sale price.

There are many ways to prepare a home for a successful sale. To learn more about selling your home (and all things real estate), get in touch today.

Vacation rentals can be great passive income streams — as long as you can keep them booked.

In order to do that, you need to create a getaway that appeals to first-time customers and repeat guests alike.

One way to do that is by having in-demand amenities on the property. Having these could help you maximize the bookings (and revenue) at your vacation rental home.

• A Full Suite of Appliances: Guests want to be able to make a pot of coffee, cook a nice meal and wash their swimsuits, especially if they’re planning to stay for a while. While you don’t need every appliance under the sun, make sure your property has at least the basics, and possibly some extras (e.g., waffle maker, towel warmer, etc.).
• Accessible Wi-Fi: Many people may want to work remotely from the property, so having strong Wi-Fi is nonnegotiable. It’s also important to provide for entertainment purposes, as guests will need WiFi for streaming and gaming platforms.
• Luxe Bathrooms: Your guests want bathrooms that feel less like home and a little more like a high-end spa when they’re on vacation. Consider having plush towels, relaxing shower benches, dual showerheads and radiant flooring.
• Indoor and Outdoor Group Activities: If your property can accommodate larger groups, then make sure you have activities available. These can include yard games, arcade machines, board games and more.
• Little Conveniences: Small touches that make the experience more convenient and enjoyable can go a long way. Some examples include designated parking, free passes to a nearby attraction or even a fully stocked cabinet of coffee and tea.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help finding your next vacation rental property.