Carl Beardsworth has always had a passion for helping people. This passion led him to getting his real estate license in 2017 with the goal of assisting buyers in the American dream of owning their own home.  After a few years in the business Carl became frustrated with the difficulties of obtaining a loan for many lower income borrowers and felt he could make a bigger difference as a loan broker educating and working tirelessly to provide the funding so desperately needed to these hardworking buyers.  Unfortunately as the pandemic wore on an affordability crisis began to take shape.  The lack of available homes in our area led to dramatic pricing increases and that same American dream again became out of reach to many buyers.  Frustrated in his role as a mortgage broker Carl has decided to reenter the housing market as a real estate agent with the goal of creating workforce housing for our teachers firefighters policemen nurses and so many other underappreciated members of our workforce that make this country go.  Carl has identified the biggest need in Burke county just west of Hickory and has hit the ground running beginning with phase 1 of solving this crisis.  Phase 1 entails bringing more buildable land to the market and courting builders who also share a passion for workforce housing.  This process will take time with multiple phases needed to solve this crisis But he expects to have several hundred acres online within the next several weeks.  Please read more below about the crisis and how you as a landowner or builder can help solve the problem.    Burke County Housing Needs Assessment - 2023 Insights and Recommendations Burke County, North Carolina, has experienced significant demographic and economic shifts over recent years, creating unique housing needs. In a comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment conducted by Bowen National Research, key insights were identified, pinpointing current and future housing challenges and opportunities in the county. Here’s an overview of the findings and recommended strategies to address Burke County’s housing needs. Demographics and Population Trends Between 2010 and 2020, Burke County's population slightly decreased, contrasting with North Carolina's overall growth. However, a modest increase of 0.6% was recorded from 2020 to 2023. Looking ahead to 2028, the county expects a 1% population rise, with a significant increase in senior households projected. Notably, over half of all households in Burke County are senior-led, pointing to a growing demand for senior-oriented housing options. Economic Landscape Burke County’s economy is heavily influenced by the manufacturing and healthcare sectors, providing essential employment opportunities. However, many workers face housing affordability issues due to lower wages compared to state averages. With an estimated 14,000 individuals commuting to the county daily for work, the demand for affordable, local housing remains high. Housing Supply and Affordability The county has limited availability in both rental and for-sale housing markets: Rental Market: With a high occupancy rate of 97.3%, vacancy in rental units is minimal, leading to increased rental costs. Since 2018, rental rates for common unit types have risen between 76% and 140%, with the largest gaps in affordable units priced below $891/month. For-Sale Market: Burke County’s housing inventory has decreased by almost half since 2018, resulting in a market with only 1.7 months of available inventory, well below the healthy range of 4–6 months. This low supply has pushed median home prices up by over 60% since 2019, reducing the availability of affordable options, particularly for first-time homebuyers. Community Feedback on Housing Needs The report’s community engagement found widespread concerns about affordability and availability: Stakeholders highlighted the need for affordable workforce housing and targeted solutions for single professionals and young families. Employers noted that housing challenges impede staffing, increase costs, and hinder expansion efforts. Residents and Commuters expressed dissatisfaction with the local market’s limited options and high prices. Developers cited barriers such as financing, high labor/material costs, and zoning restrictions, limiting new construction. Identified Housing Gaps To address current and future needs, the study estimates a five-year housing gap of 4,822 units across rental and for-sale markets, with specific shortfalls in lower-cost rental housing and moderately priced for-sale homes. Meeting these demands will require both policy adjustments and development incentives to encourage affordable housing projects. Recommended Strategies for Burke County The Housing Needs Assessment offers several strategic recommendations: Set Clear Goals and Prioritize Action: The county should establish short- and long-term housing goals, focusing on policies to support new developments and affordable housing initiatives. Establish a Housing Committee: A committee or dedicated housing director could provide ongoing oversight and help implement the county’s housing policies and programs. Encourage Senior-Oriented Housing: Given the county’s aging population, senior-oriented housing—including affordable rentals and independent living options—should be prioritized. Policy Adjustments and Incentives: Burke County can promote development by modifying density regulations, waiving certain fees, and supporting low-income housing programs. Enhance Community Education and Outreach: Educating residents, stakeholders, and potential developers about housing programs and incentives can foster community support for affordable housing solutions. Explore Partnerships: Collaborating with nonprofits, private developers, and local businesses could improve housing access and affordability. Burke County’s path to addressing its housing needs lies in a proactive approach, engaging stakeholders, and creating a supportive environment for new housing developments. By following these insights and recommendations, Burke County can improve housing options, making it a more accessible and thriving community for current and future residents. To work with Carl Beardsworth call (919) 616-1742

Read more

  There are nearly 83,000 licensed Real Estate agents in North Carolina.    Some are full time agents who pour their hearts and souls into creating the best possible experience for their clients. Those agents work tirelessly to stay abreast of what's happening in their local market, they network well and have spent years honing their negotiation skills. The really great ones know that no matter how long they have been in this business, there is always much to learn because it is an ever changing industry with new laws, new expectations, and new obstacles to contend with year in and year out.   Some of those 83,000 agents are part time or hobby brokers who may sell a house or two per year, they do this as a hobby to help friends and family, but their main focus of their "work day" is not gaining expertise as a REALTOR®.   Who you choose to work with when you are ready to buy or sell a home is one of the most important decisions you will make in the process. Having an agent with a lot of experience, or even a new agent who has significant support from their brokerage is at the top of the list of qualities you should look for. Here are some questions we think you should ask before you hire anyone to represent you for this important financial (and emotional) transaction.   1. How many clients have you helped to buy or sell a home? Even if the answer is not one that builds confidence in their experience, you should not automatically write them off! You may have found a super star who sells dozens of home each year and their experience speaks for itself. Or, you may have just stumbled upon an up and coming rookie who has little experience, but who works at an office with a very involved broker-in-charge and a support staff who give you a team to work with as opposed to just a newbie. Just make sure they either have experience or support. Both have the potential to serve you well. At Realty Executives, our rookie agents have a very involved broker and and in-house marketing specialist there to provide all of the support needed.   2. What is your communication style? What can I expect from you? Throughout the buying and selling process, there is much information that needs to get from one party to another. It is important to know on the front end what you can expect from your agent. Will they send you weekly communication on showings, feedback, and changes in the market? What happens if an offer comes in and your agent is "off" or out of town? How do they handle communication with cooperative agents? Are they beholden to texts only or are they willing to pick up the phone to have a conversation to get the deal done? Communication is hands down one of the most important factors in a real estate transaction. How your agent communicates with you and also the cooperative agent is of utmost importance. At Realty Executives, we offer regular training for our agents to hone these skills.   3. What is your marketing strategy? Selling a home takes more than a sign in the yard. When the market is hot and buyers are flooding seller inboxes with offers, it might seem like all you need is a listing in the MLS and a sign in the yard. That might get you an offer, but will it get you the most favorable terms? Having an agent who is willing to market every property to the best of his or her ability, regardless of the market, will help to ensure that you have more choices in the offer you accept. Professional photography is a must and when appropriate, drone video can highlight a property from a vantage point you can't get from the ground. You need an agent who understands visual marketing and also knows how to spotlight the best features in your home in order to draw in offers with the best possible terms for you. At the very least, ask them to show you how they have marketed past properties and what is considered included as a part of their listing service. Do they have a marketing professional at their office? Are they willing to pay a professional for needed materials? Every REALTOR® at our office has access to our in-house marketing specialist who can create custom marketing materials to get your home sold.   Example of a drone video for one of our newest listings.   4. What do you believe will be your most important role as my agent? A REALTOR® is not a salesperson. A REALTOR® is a matchmaker, a communicator, and a problem solver. Their job is to help willing buyers connect with willing sellers and to facilitate an agreement that leaves all parties feeling like they got exactly what they were looking for. A great agent will be your guide through the process and leave you satisfied that their experience, education and know-how was exactly what you needed to navigate a process that can be challenging. Make sure that the agent you hire knows that you are relying on them to guide you, to find the answers to your questions, and to see you through to the closing table.   Of the 80,000 plus agents in North Carolina, you deserve to find the one best suited to you. Make sure that your personalities mesh, because you may be spending a lot of time together. But beyond personality, find someone committed to their craft. Being a great REALTOR® doesn't look the same on every agent. But every truly great REALTOR® will put you first and be committed to your satisfaction with the process. Our brokers at Realty Executives of Hickory and Lake Norman are truly great. That's why we have been voted the Best REALTORS® in the Catawba Valley over and over again. Whether you are buying, selling, or both, we are sure that we have a professional who will be the perfect guide to take you from thinking about moving to the closing table.    Connect with one of our executive brokers, you'll be glad you did.     Check out our home buyer's and home seller's guides for success.            

Read more

Buying a home is probably a lot more manageable than you think. Somewhere along the line, these crazy misconceptions have crept into the home buying conversation and made the dream of home ownership seem less attainable.   It’s time to set the record straight. Here are five common homebuyer misconceptions and the truth about each: 1. You need to save 20 percent for the down payment before you can buy a home. There are several ways to buy a home without a 20 percent down payment! FHA loans are the most popular option. They allow you to buy a home with as little as 3.5 percent down.  There are also zero percent down options for special cases, like military personnel (active or veteran) or rural properties. Simply contact a lender to discuss your options. You may be closer to home ownership than you think! Quick side note: you should also understand that your down payment won’t be your only home buying expense. You’ll need money to pay for closing costs (typically 2-5 percent of the purchase price). And you should have a little money set aside to make any urgent renovations or necessary upgrades. 2. Now isn’t a good time to buy because interest rates are rising. The interest rate on your mortgage is a significant factor in your monthly payment and in the total amount you pay over the term of your loan. Interest rates are on the rise, which means the cost of having a mortgage is increasing. Many buyers mistakenly think they missed the boat on low interest rates.   But did you know interest rates are still historically low? When you look at interest rates by decade, you’ll see rates between 7-12 percent in the ’70s, over 18 percent in the ’80s, and 7-9 percent in the ’90s. Today’s rates are only around 5 percent! Contrary to the misconception, now is the perfect time to buy, before rates get higher. 3. You need to wait for the perfect home. There isn’t always going to the perfect home. When buyers look for the perfect home, they typically end up frustrated and disappointed. Instead of worrying about everything you need to make it perfect, focus on your priorities. What aspects of a home are most important to you?     Location is always a good aspect to focus on first. You can change almost anything else about a home through renovations, remodeling, or even rebuilding, but you can’t change the location. 4. You don’t need to be pre-approved for a mortgage loan? For most people, the first step in the home buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage.  Pre-approval confirms that you’re financially ready to buy. A lender will look over your financial information and tell you how much money you’re qualified to borrow for a mortgage. That way you’ll know exactly what price range to stay in when you start your house hunt. To get pre-approved, simply contact a local lender (you can even compare interest rates for multiple lenders online!). 5. You can save money by cutting out the real estate agent. Did you know that buyers don’t pay their real estate agents? The sellers pay all real estate agent fees. So if you’re a buyer, there’s no reason not to hire a real estate agent to give you professional representation in this important investment transaction. Real estate agents have the inside scoop on the market, they’re expert negotiators, and they can smoothly guide you through the process (and the paperwork). You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by hiring a real estate agent to represent you in buying your home. Don’t let these common home buyer misconceptions delay your dream of home ownership! Qualifying for a loan and buying a home is within reach. This post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. This post was written by Michelle Clardie. Michelle is a professional real estate blogger, specializing in ghostwriting Realtor® blogs. Her engaging content helps real estate agents become more visible online, generate more qualified leads, and increase their revenues. You can learn more at www.michelleclardie.com.

Read more

Every real estate broker or team lead knows that recruiting new agents is an ongoing challenge as you grow, but just getting warm bodies in the door isn’t enough. An effective long-term strategy requires the recruitment of the right kind of people — agents whose personalities and philosophies fit your brokerage’s core culture. Brokers have many ways to identify, connect with and actively recruit ideal agents. One effective channel that’s often overlooked, however, is LinkedIn. Although Facebook’s active participant numbers (2.23 billion) clearly overshadow the business social site’s active ranks (500 million), most LinkedIn members use the platform for one purpose: to further their careers. Because of this laser focus on business, agents find the site offers a good source of client leads and referrals. One survey by content marketing platform Hubspot found that conversion rates for marketing on LinkedIn were up to 277% higher than the mainstream social networks. Of course, not all agents are regularly participating on LinkedIn, but those who are will most likely be more strategy-focused and business-minded than average. So if you want to recruit the most serious agents, LinkedIn offers a great option to find them. There are several simple steps for recruiting on LinkedIn. First, make sure that your content, including your personal page, brokerage page, posts and articles communicate your culture and workplace clearly to ideal prospects. Second, maximize your network through the connection function and Realtor groups. Third, commit to an ongoing outreach plan, in which you can naturally invite the best agents to your brokerage. A free LinkedIn membership is fine for basic networking, but if you’re serious about getting an edge on agent recruiting, their paid features may be worth the investment. 1. Prepare Your Profile On LinkedIn, your profile page is critical and even more important than on the other networks. The site’s visitors typically respond to a connection request immediately or soon after reading a helpful article. In both cases, they want to know who the contact is and if they are someone with whom they might want to network. By design, a LinkedIn profile offers the visitor much more data than the profile pages on Facebook and Twitter. However, a LinkedIn profile that’s missing information can have an opposite, negative effect. Think of ways to present your information so that it directly addresses the agents you want to recruit. Include a pithy headline that will make a prospect want to read more about you. While the profile page is a place where many people brag about their accomplishments, a better strategy is to write it so that any agent who reads it will understand a) what makes your brokerage unique and b) how that benefits them. The brokerage page connected with your profile page should even more clearly communicate the benefits to a prospective agent. Include an overview of your facility, agent support and development, as well as your current team of successful agents. Also, check out your competition. Run a search for brokers in your area and view them from the perspective of an agent who’s considering a change. It’s important to regularly update this page with images and videos so prospects know you’re keeping it current. As paid options, you might want to set up a Career page and build what is essentially a company website within the platform. These options allow brokers to showcase their work environment and to post agent job openings. 2. Maximize Your Network LinkedIn has several degrees of connections designed to enable networking while preventing unsolicited messaging. Contacting people who are first- or second-degree connections is free. First-degree connections comprise people who have accepted your invitation to join your LinkedIn network. Once connected, you can see their full profile and communicate with them through the message system. Second-degree connections include those connected with your first-degree connections who are not directly connected with you. You don’t have full communication with them through the platform, but LinkedIn makes it easy to request a first-degree connection. (Just click the Connect button.) Anyone in your email address book is considered a second-degree connection, and LinkedIn can help you bulk-send connection requests to those people. Third-degree and higher connections encompass all the contacts who are further removed from your network. With a LinkedIn premium account, you can message these people through the InMail function. Otherwise, you would need a chain of introductions for a connection. Join the Right Groups. LinkedIn groups are places you can interact with people of similar interests without direct connections. There are thousands of groups covering nearly every type of business interest. Since your goal is to make personal connections, you might start by searching for “Realtors” and consider local groups in your area. To join a group, click the “Ask To Join” button, which will send a request to the group manager. Each group has its own purpose and rules, so it’s helpful to get a sense of the subject matter and tone of discussion before posting. If you can’t find an appropriate group for local agents, you can always start your own. LinkedIn gives you easy instructions. 3. Work Your Outreach Plan Drew Peterson, a real estate recruiter who uses LinkedIn, suggests sending five new connection requests every week. Look for agents referred by your current agents, those who meet your criteria, or people you’ve heard about through social media or other connections. Make sure you include a personal touch point. For instance, before sending an invitation to connect, review the agent’s profile and look for a conversation starter. Maybe you attended the same school or share an interest in a cause or activity? If you can’t find something in common, Peterson suggests looking at their recommendations to find a topic. On the agent’s profile page, click the link for “See all activity,” and take a look at what they’ve posted, liked and commented. Keep your communication brief, limiting your remarks to no more than a sentence or two. Let the conversation lead naturally to a phone call or face-to-face meeting as part of a long-term plan. An agent worth recruiting will take time to consider whether or not your brokerage is worth joining. Start a Conversation. Once you’ve sent five new connection requests, message five of your existing prospects to keep the conversations rolling. LinkedIn shouldn’t replace your current offline recruiting effort, but it can serve as a natural complement. Remember, good agents who you’re wooing through other channels will also be looking at your LinkedIn profile page as they make their decisions on which brokerage to ultimately join.  

Read more

When it comes to real estate investing, is it better to buy-and-hold or fix-and-flip? The answer depends on your investment goals, your personal preferences, and your local market. Let’s looks at each strategy and figure out which is the better fit for you. What is Buy-and-Hold? Buy-and-hold is when you purchase an investment property for the long-term. Most investors start with a single-family home or small multi-family property (2-4 units). You simply find a property where the rent will exceed all your expenses (as a general rule of thumb, investors like to see the monthly rent be more than 1% of the purchase price), then find reliable renters for the property. The rents collected will pay down your mortgage debt, pay all your investment-related expenses (like taxes, insurance, and maintenance), and put money in your pocket every month for decades to come! The Upside: Buy-and-hold properties are relatively safe investments that provide monthly cash flows, tax benefits, and long-term appreciation. And they are fairly low-maintenance. You can handle the management of the property yourself or, if you’re more interested in purely passive income, hire a property manager to handle everything for you. The Downside: It will take time to recoup your investment. What is Fix-and-Flip? With fix-and-flip investments investors want to get in and out of the deal as quickly as possible. This is the “HGTV model” where you find a fixer-upper, complete the renovations in just a month or two, and immediately sell the newly-renovated property. Many investors like to follow the 70% rule when evaluating properties as fix-and-flips. They like to see the purchase price around 70% of the projected After-Repair Value (ARV) minus the project expenses. (ARV x 70%) – expenses = ideal purchase price So if you have a property you can sell for $300,000 after the renovation, and your expenses will be $50,000, you’d like to buy the property for $160,000 or less (300,000 x 70% = 210,000 – 50,000 = 160,000). For most investors, this formula confirms that the property will turn enough of a profit to be worth their time and effort. The Upside: Fix-and-flip properties can provide quick returns. You could recoup your investment plus a hefty profit in a matter of months. And, for the right investor, fix-and-flip properties are fun and rewarding work. The Downside: Fix-and-flip properties are labor-intensive. You’ll either invest a lot of time in renovating the property yourself, or you’ll invest time and money in managing contractors to provide the labor. Inaccurate estimates and projections can cause your project to go over-budget. There’s even some risk of losing money on a deal if you can’t sell the home quickly. The Bottom Line If you want to be a hands-on investor, actively engaged in a renovation project, the fix-and-flip strategy may be a good fit for you. Just take the time to do your research: understand how much work will be required, learn the going rates for local labor and materials, and know your local real estate market. Fix-and-flips always work best in a hot market where home values are quickly rising. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more passive and with less risk, buy-and-hold might suit you better. Just be sure you’re comfortable tying up your money in the investment long-term and spend the time to carefully evaluate the available properties and thoroughly screen potential tenants.   Choose the real estate investment strategy that best fits your goals and personal preferences. Will you buy-and-hold or fix-and-flip? This post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. This post was written by Michelle Clardie. Michelle is a professional real estate blogger, specializing in ghostwriting Realtor® blogs. Her engaging content helps real estate agents become more visible online, generate more qualified leads, and increase their revenues. You can learn more at www.michelleclardie.com.

Read more

With climate change and global warming hot topics in society today, you might be wondering if there are some ways you can reduce water use to help the environment. Reducing water use also helps you save on your monthly utility bills, which means you have more money to put elsewhere in your budget. Here are some easy strategies you can implement to help reduce your water use. Maintain and Repair All Leaks Sometimes your home can have a small, less-than-obvious leak. Large leaks are easier to identify, often accompanied by a jump in your water bill. Checking for leaks regularly can help reduce your water use. If you notice a leak, shut off the water, repair it, or call a plumber right away. Have previous leaks checked to make sure they are not leaking again. If you have pipes or other parts in disrepair, we recommend replacing them immediately to avoid any major damage. Use the Dishwasher This one might seem surprising. However, running the dishwasher when it’s full saves more money than washing all dishes by hand. The key is making sure the dishwasher is full!  If you don’t have a dishwasher, fill the sink or a bowl with water rather than letting the tap run for the entire duration that you do dishes. Take Short Showers Short showers use less water than taking a bath. Try to take the shortest shower possible. You can also turn the water off when you are shaving or conditioning your hair to use less water. If you want to take baths, try to limit them to a few times per month compared to everyday. Don’t Do Laundry Everyday The washing machine is one of the appliances in your home that uses the most water. Only do laundry when you have a full load or when things are very dirty. If you live in shared housing with roommates, ask them if they want to share a load with you when you don’t have enough to fill the machine. Washing your clothes less frequently also means less wear and tear so your favorite items will last longer. Most clothes also do not need to be washed in hot water unless they are very soiled. Consider using cold water unless you’re washing towels or bedding. You can also choose to alternate using hot and cold water rather than using hot with every wash. Insulate Your Water Pipes Water pipes that are not insulted struggle to keep water warm during colder months. This means you will have to let the water run longer before it is warm, creating water waste. When you insulate your pipes, the water loses less heat. Getting your pipes insulated might seem expensive but you will see a difference in your utility bill by letting less water run. Water Plants in the Morning If you have an outdoor garden that needs watering, don’t water it during the heat of the day. Water it in the morning to reduce evaporation from the heat and wind. This will mean you can use less water since all the water coming out of the hose or sprinklers will be absorbed better by the soil and plants. You should also group plants together according to their water needs so that you don’t have to water the whole garden when it’s not necessary. Never Let Water Run Little habits can make a large impact. You can turn off sink water during your grooming routine to help save water. Consider turning it off when you are brushing your teeth, shaving, or putting on makeup. You can even hang reminders on the bathroom mirror to make sure you are turning the water off. Install Flow Restrictors There are special shower and faucet heads that restrict the flow of water to only the amount you need to adequately bathe. This allows water not to be wasted while you are in the shower or using the sink. You can consider installing these in the primary bathroom or all bathrooms, depending on your budget. Keep Water in the Fridge You can fill a pitcher with water and put it in the fridge for cold water rather than making the faucet run to turn cold each time you would like a cold beverage. You can also fill ice trays with water. Spread Awareness Last, if water consumption is something that you’re passionate about, you can spread awareness to friends and the community by having discussions. Encouraging other people to be aware of how much water they use and how they can cut back can make more of a difference than you think. With a few simple steps, we can all greatly reduce our water usage!

Read more

Adding a pet to your home and family can be an exciting and stressful task! There are many factors to consider:  the type of pet to choose, the space available inside and outside of your home, the time available in your schedule, etc.  In this article, we’ll review some tips to help you bring home your new pet and successfully incorporate it into your living space. Preparing for a New Pet Before purchasing or adopting a pet, there are a few things to consider. How Much Space Do You Have to Work With? To make sure that you can provide your new pet with a quality life, you first need to assess the space available for it. For example, a large home with an ample backyard can accommodate different pets compared to a small home or apartment.  There are pet options for all sizes of homes! Consider both your indoor and outdoor space, and the types and sizes of animals that could exist happily in those areas.  Will your pet need their own dedicated space, or will they roam freely and share space with you? Make sure that the pet of your choosing can coexist in your home and has an appropriate amount of space. How Much Time Do You Have? Making space for pets in your home is a starting point, but you will also need to make time to care for your pets. Some animals require less attention and maintenance, meaning they could be good options for families that are constantly on-the-go. For example, a fish needs daily food and regular tank cleanings, but those tasks are far less demanding than a dog who needs daily feeding, exercise, water, and the occasional grooming, veterinary check-ups, etc. Review your schedule to see how much time you have available to dedicate to a pet. Your lifestyle will play a big part! If you are a jetsetter or someone who works long hours, you may have less time to spend with your pets than someone who works from home or is retired. Think about partners and children who could potentially help with care, and if it is a realistic option.  Remember Activity Levels When selecting a pet, many people focus on the size and type of their pet- especially as it relates to space and time referenced above.  However, many fail to think about the activity level of a pet.  Both age and the type of pet are factors in activity level, and it is important that you are prepared. For example, if your heart is set on a puppy, that puppy is going to have a much higher energy level than a senior dog.  Exercise and play will be key as it will take some years for the dog to mature.  Senior dogs, on the other hand, may be more interested in sleep and relaxation than playtime. Make sure that you are prepared to meet the energy level and activity demands of your new pet. Even small pets have routines that may or may not work for your family.  For example, a hamster or gerbil demands less care and attention that other types of pets, and their homes take up little space.  However, these animals are nocturnal. While they may be sedentary during the day, you could hear that hamster wheel spinning all night! Creating Spaces for Your Pet Once you have decided on a pet, you can begin to create some special spaces within your home. Utilize the Space Under Your Stairs New pets can come with a lot of supplies!  One great way to utilize the space in your home is to add bins, shelving, and other types of storage under your stairs. Use the freshly created storage area to organize things like food, collars, leashes, treats, and toys. Consider alternating the colors of the bins or the height of the shelves to make it look visually appealing.  In addition to providing storage for your pet’s things, it can also contribute to the aesthetic of your home! If you would prefer to utilize furniture rather than install shelves or cabinets, consider repurposing a TV stand or dresser. A television stand with cabinets or a multi-bin dresser has great storage space to keep your pet’s items tucked neatly out of sight. You can also use the space under the stairs to place a bed, litter box, or food bowl for your pet to access. Hollow Out a Side Table Another great way to create space for your pet is to hollow out a side table. You likely already have one beside your bed or your couch, so use it! If there is a door attached, take it off, sand anything that needs smoothed down, and add some bedding and a toy. This could be the perfect resting spot for a dog, cat, or other small animal. The same process works for small cages as well if there is proper ventilation and light. Don’t want to mess with your existing furniture? Consider buying something new.  Many retailers are now offering crate-style furniture that for various rooms in the home.  Think Vertically If you are short on floorspace, get creative when it comes to using walls and the height of a room! For example, instead of putting a cat bed on the floor, consider hanging a basket near a window for nap with a view.  You could also install narrow walkways near the ceiling for small, nimble pets to travel from room to room. For fish and reptiles, consider vertical tanks that can fit snugly in a corner. Create Outdoor Safe Zones Depending on your pet, you may need alter some of your outdoor spaces for safety reasons.  This often involves fencing or gating specific areas of the yard. One common strategy is to build a fence and gate on a side yard to create a play area or run. This may seem restrictive, but it doesn’t have to be your pet’s only outdoor access. This space allows pets to lounge when they are unsupervised- especially if your yard is unfenced or if there is concern about access to the pool.  Additionally, the fencing could be a way to keep smaller animals such as rabbits or chickens away from larger pets. Some pets may also benefit from a cage or house to protect them from the weather or predators. Do your research to determine the appropriate size structure and materials for your pet’s outdoor home. Regardless of your pet choice, your home will feel well-balanced when both you and your pet have the time and space you need to coexist. Enjoy incorporating your new pet into your life!

Read more

There are many things to enjoy during the first weeks of autumn- from cooler weather and the vibrant colors of fall leaves to the first light blanket of snow. However, the change in seasons is also a reminder that winter weather is around the corner, and it is time for some quick home maintenance chores. As you indulge in sweater weather, spiced drinks, and the pre-holiday season, take time to put a few home projects on your to-do list. Clean gutters Throughout the year, leaves, twigs, and debris build up in your gutters. Clogged gutters lead to a host of costly issues for your home such as leaks and molds. Autumn is the best time to take care of this critical home maintenance task after the leaves have dropped from the trees. Your gutters will be in perfect working order for heavy precipitation through the winter. Paint exterior If you’ve been avoiding big home improvement projects to avoid the summer heat, the temperate fall weather is the ideal time to check these items off your list. Fall temperatures are the best conditions for painting your home’s exterior. Plus, a fresh paint job on your front door can brighten up your home’s exterior and boost curb appeal. Care for your perennials Give your perennials extra care by pruning the branches and laying down fresh mulch. Pruning your perennials and removing excess foliage nurtures healthy growth. Mulching is a landscaping project usually reserved for spring, but there are fantastic benefits to doing these tasks in the fall. Fresh mulch will also protect them from harsh winter weather conditions. Inspect and repair roofing Heavy winds and storms can loosen and tear away at aging shingles and expose your home to leaks and major water damage. Inspect your roof and assess any repairs, no matter how small. Look for missing, curled, or damaged shingles and exposure of the metal flashing. Replace damaged or missing shingles.  It’s easier to make small repairs before harsh weather moves in! Upgrade insulation Home heating costs add up quickly, and you can increase your energy efficiency by draft-proofing your home. Check doors, windows, and chimneys for openings that can cause cold water and air to leak into your home. Caulk or re-caulk windows as needed and consider replacing single pane windows that don’t provide proper insulation. It’s easy to neglect the attic and crawl spaces, so inspect those areas for air leakage and deteriorated wood and caulking. Warm air rises, so if your attic isn’t well-insulated, you’ll lose a lot of heat. Trim foliage Wind can loosen dead branches, and snow and ice build-up on tree limbs, causing them to break and fall. This can cause costly damage to your home, fence, power lines, or other personal property. Take initiative and hire a tree service company to trim your trees. Not only does it prevent a disaster, but it keeps trees healthy and vibrant. Inspect and upgrade your furnace The last thing you want is your furnace to break down during a winter storm. You’ll save yourself a major headache by checking it now or hiring a professional to inspect it. Regular maintenance improves efficiency and reduces home heating costs. But more importantly, it will increase the longevity of your furnace and ensure that it’s operating under safe conditions. Clean your fireplace There’s nothing like cozying up to a fire on a cold winter day, but before you build that fire and strike the match, don’t forget to inspect it first. A clogged chimney can increase the risk of fire and should be inspected and cleaned before you put it to use. Inspect your fireplace flue with a flashlight to see if the damper is working properly, and look for bird’s nests, foliage, and any other detritus. You should be able to see daylight at the top of the chimney. Finally, check for missing or broken bricks and mortar. Winterize irrigation systems Your irrigation systems can still freeze even if they are buried underground. Draining and removing water from your irrigation system will prevent it from bursting in cold temperatures. You can do this by shutting off valves to the outside faucets and opening them to drain the line. Remove any above-ground sprinkler heads and shake the water out. If you don’t have shut-off valves, install foam faucet covers to insulate them from cold air and frigid temperatures. Your home is your sanctuary, and you will spend much more time nesting during the long winter season. Big or small, fall home improvements will allow you to make the most of it!

Read more

If you live in the United States or Canada, you’ve probably seen many advertisements saying you can save a lot of money by installing solar panels on your home. You might have even been told that your state or provincial government will give you incentives or rebates if you sign up. But is this true? Can you significantly cut high energy costs by installing solar panels on your roof? Renting & Owning Panels Whether you purchase the solar panels and system or rent them will affect your results. Private companies offer potential customers the chance to have solar panels installed on their homes for free, but the customer will not own the panels. They will be leasing the panels and paying for the electricity. And most of the time, they end up paying more to lease the panels than if they had purchased them themselves. Let’s look at what solar panels can do for the homeowner. What Are Solar Panels? Solar panels are a collection of photovoltaic cells that are arranged in a grid on top of a panel. The cells absorb the sun’s rays and transform the light from the sun into electricity that is then used to provide power. When you install these panels in your home, they help combat harmful emissions of greenhouse gasses and help reduce global warming. Today, they are considered a clean and renewable source of energy. What Solar Companies Claim This is what the companies claim: if you install solar power systems in your home, you can lower your electric bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and potentially raise the value of your home. Some companies even claim that once you pay off the high cost of installation, you could potentially power your entire home for free. Beware of Misleading Information Aggressive salespeople are giving potential customers a lot of misleading information, and many people are getting scammed. Below are some of the things solar power scammers are doing. Power Purchase Agreement Contracts A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a contract the company will get you to sign that will lock you into a decades-long agreement with the company. They will appear to have your best interests at heart and make everything easy for you. They will provide all the solar power equipment and install it “free of charge.” However, once the customer is locked in, they discover that the costs are higher than they were told or anticipated. And once they’re locked in, it’s nearly impossible to be released from the contract without paying an excessive amount. Some customers end up paying tens of thousands of dollars just to get out of the contract.  Be extremely cautious when committing to a long term PPA. Bait and Switch Tax Credit Guarantees If you search for solar power companies or even pay attention to the ads you see on YouTube, you will often hear them mention a tax credit whereby the United States federal government will reimburse up to $12,000. What they aren’t telling you is that the tax credit is for people who purchase the entire system outright. Most of these companies are leasing solar power equipment, and the customer does not own it. Therefore, the consumer is disqualified from any federal tax credits, and the solar company gets the credit instead. In Canada, things are slightly different. Though Canadians are also being scammed, as of June 2022, some provinces do offer incentives and rebates. You can check here to see if your province offers any rebates or incentives. Just know that these decisions change at any given time, and the website encourages you to verify with the province whether the rebate or incentive is still being offered. The Promise of Unrealistic Savings Many people have found themselves in financial debt because they were promised their energy bills would be decreased to nearly nothing. Or, if they go with the company’s plan, it won’t cost them a penny. This is not true. Government Funding Most of the ads that catch consumers’ attention are the ones claiming to be government-funded programs that will get you free solar panels for your home. According to the website Verify, a company with the mission to stop the spread of false information, the United States federal government is not giving away free solar panels. These ads are misleading. The FTC warns potential customers to read the contract carefully before signing it. “Most people will pay more over the lifetime of a solar lease than if they purchased and financed a system,” the Illinois Citizens Utility Board says. Is It Better to Buy the Solar Panels Yourself? If you are thinking about buying your own solar power system, there are a few things to consider that will aid you in making the best decision for you and your family. How much will the solar power system cost? How much energy will it produce for the system you purchase? How does that cost compare to what you already pay for the same energy use? How long will it take for your upfront investment to pay for itself in saved energy costs? Will the system pay for itself in five years? If you already have the capital to pay upfront and are comfortable with all the answers to the five questions above, solar power could be a good option. There is a great tool to help you get started, especially if you are new to considering solar power. Solar Reviews is a website that has a calculator that can give you representative costs and savings for a solar power system in every part of the United States. This tool is invaluable for beginners who need help understanding the basic costs. Another website that can help you make all the calculations in order to reach the right decision is Investopedia. Their site enables you to calculate all of your initial costs as well as the approximate energy you use on a daily basis. After you’ve worked through the calculations, you should end up with the number of years it will take for your solar system to pay for itself in savings. Conclusion If you are fortunate enough to live in a very sunny part of the world and are struggling with high utility bills, you could potentially start to see the benefits of installing a solar power system within five years. On the other hand, some homeowners have had to wait 10 or 20 years before reaping the savings. To avoid becoming a victim of a solar power scam, do your research. If you feel rushed or pressured into deciding, take caution. Dedicate the time to investigate different companies and read online reviews from customers before purchasing or leasing. About the Author: Alexandra Christensen is a freelance writer and single mom of three adopted kids with unique abilities. She is a novice homeowner and spends a lot of time on DIY sites looking for ways to make home improvements while saving some money. When not freelancing, she can be found at https://medium.com/@alexandra_creates.

Read more

Whether you have an indoor garden or large backyard, smart gardening will help you save time, money, and design the best possible garden for your environment. We reached out to gardening experts for their best gardening tips: Choose the right plants Jessyca Frederick, co-founder and CEO of Water Wise Now, recommends selecting plants native to your region: These plants prefer your soil and weather just the way it is. This means you don’t need to amend the soil texture or drainage, provide additional nutrients, and rarely will you need additional water. You still need to pay attention to microclimate, but this is usually easy to research. “Native gardens are also wildlife gardens. They’ll attract the birds and butterflies so coveted by many gardeners. Plant milkweed and you’ll get monarchs.” Know your fertilizer Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal says fertilizer is an important consideration: One of the biggest misconceptions gardeners and yard enthusiasts don’t know about is what the numbers on the outside of the bag of fertilizer mean. The numbers you see on the bag or a percent of the content that is concluded in the bag in this order: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In most cases, a homeowner can go with a balanced fertilizer such as a 15-15-15 and will be okay. Especially during the spring and summer months, the grass has stressful conditions to deal with. So, applying a more expensive potassium now can prevent problems from developing or continuing. Make use of your windows Michelle Polk, blogger at Houseplant Girl says you should take stock of your windows: Which directions do they face? Do you have mostly south or north facing windows? What you want to do is get to know your home and understand that plants need the right placement in order to succeed. Some plants need more light, some plants need less light, some plants love neglect. “Getting to know your specific layout is necessary for a great indoor garden. The rest will follow suit.” You can’t go wrong with herbs Ostap Bosak, manager of Marquis Gardens, says herbs are a great option for indoor spaces: They are less fussy and work well in indirect light. I like to plant them in separate containers as they generally have different growing rates and this prevents one plant from overtaking the other in a mixed planter. For gardeners with brown thumbs Rather than learn all about different plant preferences and build an environment suited to each plant in your garden, Frederick suggests selecting “bullet proof” plants: These are plants that are difficult to kill; they’re very tolerant of less-than-desirable conditions and are low-maintenance. These gardens will look “nice” most of the time, but will not necessarily be exciting or showy. What are your tried and tested gardening tips? Tell us in the comments section below.

Read more

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, there are 70-80 million dogs and 74-96 million cats in the United States. And the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association reports that approximately 35-38% of Canadian households have a dog or a cat. So, it’s no surprise that home designers and builders often plan homes with pet amenities in mind. “It’s not just a matter of being pet-friendly, but rather a question of giving your pets environmental enrichment,” say The Cat’s House authors Bob Walker and Frances Mooney. Here are some pet environmental enrichment features to look out for: Private spaces and play areas As you walk through the home, take note of private areas that can be used to house a cat litter box. Rooms or nooks that are accessible to your cat but still isolated enough that odor won’t be an issue are ideal. And look for other areas around the house that can also be used for cat trees, shelves and roaming space. For dog owners, private spaces will also be ideal for bed placement, and smart storage of toys and food. Finally, look out for a laundry room with an industrial sink or a second bathroom that can double as a built-in dog wash. Flooring Homes with flooring and surfaces made out of pet-resistant materials such as concrete or porcelain tile are ideal, however, you can always update this yourself if necessary. The Animal Behavior College also recommends stone, vinyl, laminate or cork, noting that durable and milder-resistant designs are best. And as an added benefit, Cesar’s Way notes that “hard floors are preferable to carpet [because they] can provide a cool spot for your dog to lie on on hot days.” Outdoors A large backyard with space to run, play and dig is ideal for dog owners, although once again this isn’t a deal breaker if the home is near a dog park or in a walkable neighborhood. Similarly, a yard with a desert landscape or sparse greenery can be converted into a more pet-friendly area with a water feature, grass and shade. Fencing is important for both cat and dog owners, and if you have an outdoor cat, consider walls that they can walk along over wire fencing. Other things to consider: If the home has a pool or hot tub, is it fenced off? Is there a proper storage area for yard care items? What about the neighborhood? Consider the neighborhood as a whole while you’re looking for homes. Does it have sidewalks and is it easily walkable? Is there a nearby park and if so, does it have dog waste stations? Walk around the neighborhood to see how the other animals are. Are they friendly, or do the dogs bark when they see you? Talk to any pet owners you encounter and ask them how they find the area. And the presence of local vets and groomers in the area is also a good sign and indicator that you’re in a pet-friendly neighborhood. Finally, talk to your real estate agent and be frank about your needs. This should help him or her better identify potential homes with all of the key features discussed above.

Read more

Cold weather can wreak havoc on your home. According to the ​Insurance Information Institute​, losses from winter weather average around $1.2 billion a year in the U.S. The best way to avoid problems caused by winter weather and precipitation is to prevent them before they happen. Here are five common problems that occur and some tips on how to prevent them: 1.​ Roof leaks and ice dams Small gaps between roofing materials can turn into big problems in the winter when extreme temperatures cause expansion and contraction. To prevent an ice dam from forming, the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine ​recommend making sure any gaps in the roof or attic that allow hot air to escape from your home are tightly sealed and closed. During warmer weather, look out for water staining, loose shingles, missing caulk, or nails that extend into an attic space. Cleaning your gutters and breaking up piles of ice that begin to form on your roof will also help prevent ice dams. Call a handyman or add these tasks to your to-do list to save yourself from major headaches later. 2.​ Frozen pipes When the pipes freeze in poorly insulated areas of your home, the resulting leak can cost thousands of dollars to fix. California Water Service indicates that approximately 250,000​ homes suffer severe damage​ due to frozen pipes that burst and cause damage to floors, walls, and furniture. To prevent frozen pipes, ​Consumer Reports recommends keeping your heat​ set to at least 55 degrees, even when you’re not at home. And if you’ll be out of town for an extended period of time, protect vulnerable pipes by adding insulation, opening cabinet doors, or turning off your water. 3.​ Mold In winter, mold can grow near improperly insulated vents in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or exterior walls, causing damage to drywall and ceilings. The Center​ for Disease Control and Inspection suggests using a dehumidifier in problem areas of your house, as well as removing carpeting from any areas that are damp or humid. Inspecting your home for signs of mold can address any air flow problems before they become an issue. 4.  ​Chimney problems When temperatures are cold outside, creosote begins to form inside your chimney. ​The Chimney Safety Institute of America​ says creosote is formed when smoke, water vapor, gases, unburned wood particles, hydrocarbon, tar fog, and assorted minerals leave the fireplace and flow up into the cold chimney. Creosote is extremely flammable and without proper chimney maintenance, your home could be at risk of a chimney fire. Examine the exterior of your chimney for any cracks, warping, or discoloration from smoke before winter arrives. Also, get your chimney inspected and repaired regularly to avoid sparking a fire that could destroy your home. 5.  ​Falling trees Strong winds, heavy ice and snow can cause branches to fall during winter storms. Trees that tend to fall due to ice and snow storms include ​willow, white pine and some varieties of maple. Experts recommend trimming overhanging branches that could damage your home if they fall. Bracing tree trunks with cables attached to stakes around the tree is another common solution. Source:

Read more

Curious about what real estate agents actually do and how they can help you buy or sell a home? Here’s a brief look at how they can help you through a real estate transaction: Provide advice, expertise and industry knowledge in order to better help you reach a decision. For buyers: Help you understand the different housing options available and provide you with available listings that meet your requirements within your desired areas. Help you analyze market data as you comb through your options, also recommending inspections and requests for additional information as needed. Help you understand the different types of loans and buyer assistance programs available through the city, county, state, government or via private companies. And connect you to the right lender based on your needs. Guide you through the offer process to ensure that you are protected and your consumer rights upheld. Help coordinate communications between all parties, including sellers and seller’s agent, lender and any other professionals enlisted during transaction. For sellers: Help you get your home ready for sale, enlisting the services of a home stager if necessary. And arranging for professional photographs of your home for the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database and all marketing materials. List your home and ensure that all pieces of information are correctly entered into the MLS database and other real estate platforms. Market your home both online and offline, handling requests for information as they come in. Arranging and hosting open houses for prospective buyers. Collecting offers and walking you through the fine print, pointing out any potential issues and answering any questions that may come up. For both buyers and sellers Be your advocate and present your special interests during closing and at the negotiation table. Tap into their professional network to connect you to home maintenance and improvement service providers who best meet your needs. Provide you with information on your local neighborhood association or HOA. Provide you with area information and local secrets, such as where to get the best pizza in the neighborhood. Continue to offer advice once the transaction is complete, referring you to other housing or real estate professionals should the need arise. Source:

Read more