Back to School….Who is Ready?

Aug 7, 2017 | Real Estate

Oh Summer….how we all love you! With less responsibilities and more time for fun in the sun and relaxing….who would not love Summer? But all good things must come to an end, until next time. Going back to school means back to schedules and routines, less time for fun in the sun and relaxation.

Here are some tips to help you get started now to help make the transition a smooth one…or as smooth as it can be!

You have heard this one before….start waking up earlier! – For many students, Summer means staying late and sleeping in until late everyday. If you start slowly and set your alarm a bit earlier to begin the process of getting back into the swing of things now, it will help. Even a week out, it is better to go from 10 to 9 and then 8 for bedtime at night and even wake up in morning. Gradually moving the alarm up means less of a shock to the system once the school year starts….for students and parents!

Get shopping done now! – Get a head start on back to school shopping for new clothes and supplies, if needed. Don’t wait until last minute as you will find yourself in a rush more than if you started just a few days sooner. Tax-free weekend can be a nice savings but also means crowds, so look for those sales some retail stores have prior to tax-free weekend. When shopping for school supplies, if unable to find a certain item…no worries, even waiting until you meet your students teacher might help as they can help advise on where to find what you are looking for.

Lunch planning! – Think ahead to that first week of school and beyond to plan lunches for your students. Getting a jump start on a lunch menu for packed lunches, while asking your student for ideas or loading money on the lunch card now, will save you that school day emergency. One less worry to plan ahead for!

Prep your students now! – As we are headed back to school, remind your students that Summer is ending and now is the time to put those thinking caps back on. Make this an exciting time for them as they are getting to know a new teacher, a new class, and a even a while new grade level. Some students may be nervous about this new school year, so helping to set your student up for success now as you talk about what a great school year this will be for all, will give your student that added encouragement. We are, after all, our students biggest cheerleaders!

Remember to still relax! – There is still a few days left. While it is important to prepare, there is still a lot of sun to experience this Summer! Have fun and enjoy the last few days of Summer break. Even after school starts, give yourself a pat on the back for getting that head start and relax knowing you are prepared.

With schedules and routines of back to school along with added evening activities-  this can be an adjustment that could take days or a few weeks to fully conquer. You are not alone! Just like you do during the Summer, continue to make those memories throughout the year.

Until next time, Summer…..

Staging Your Outdoor Space

Jul 27, 2017 | Real Estate

If your house is on the market or if you are thinking of selling soon, don’t forget to stage the outdoor living area. These areas can be almost as important as the house to some buyers during their home search. As it heats up this Summer, highlight those outdoor living areas whether it is a deck or patio.

Here are a few simple ways to help:

 

Clean it up! Make sure the outdoor areas are spotlessly clean, a power wash can go a long way for outdoor furniture, patios, and decks.  You want this area to be an asset to the home buyer not just another area that they need to clean and maintain, one that really pops and catches their eye. This also means de-clutter to open up the space as well.

Keep it maintained!  If you have a deck, make sure it is freshly painted and stained.  While doing this, repair any decking or loose patio pavers while making sure furniture itself is looking good, too.  Even painted metal or wood furniture can be quick to paint with a spray can to touch up where needed. Or add a whole new fresh coat. Maintain the look of all that you have set up. If you have any stairs or railings, make sure they are not loose and make sure any lighting is fully functioning.

Keep it functional!  During showings, whenever possible make sure to have umbrellas up and cushions in place. Keep your outdoor area show ready, fully functioning and to the full potential.  Of course this is weather permitting…but show ready for a back porch/patio is just as important.

Stage for maximum appeal! Many buyers seek not only that functioning space but one they can entertain in, as well. For maximum appeal when showing your outdoor area, have it set as if it was ready to entertain and with color that pops. Think of shade needed, color pops with cushions, rugs, pillows, even table decor on the table.  Every added touch will give that feel of “home” and one that the buyer will want to come back to.

So many great ways to utilize staging in your outdoor areas. Adding that pop of color with a planter, flower pot, and landscape will make all the difference in how buyers see this space. Always keep that in mind when preparing to sell and if you want FREE staging with your listing give our team a call at 214-620-0411, we would love to help you buy or sell a home!

Free Summer Fun at Frontier Park

Jul 13, 2017 | Real Estate

Time for another great FREE and fun idea for something to do this Summer! Check out Frontier Park in Prosper. Great location to pack a pic-nic lunch to enjoy with the family in the shade under the large pavilion.  After lunch, kiddos can run and have fun on the community-built playground, Windmill Playground. Enjoy the hike and bike trails as well as bring fishing poles to catch and release fish in the pond. On those extra hot days, kiddos love the splash pad as it is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year….what a great way to cool off and enjoy family fun! Great open green space as well to play catch. 
You can even reserve the pavilion at Frontier Park through the City of Prosper for parties or family gatherings. So much to see and do at this great location in Prosper….fun for the whole family!!
Stay cool and enjoy the rest of your Summer. We will have more FREE and fun Summer ideas coming your way! If you are looking to buy or sell before the Summer ends, now is still a great time! Give us a call, we would be happy to help!

Free Summer Fun at Towne Lake

Jun 29, 2017 | Real Estate

As Summer is in full swing, here is another FREE and fun idea for something to do! Check out Towne Lake in McKinney. Great location to pack a pic-nic lunch with the family to enjoy the park, walking trail, and even feed the geese. Jump into a paddleboat, fish off the fishing pier, or play a game of sand volleyball or horseshoes… just a few more things you can do for free while at Towne Lake. Bring your bikes or skates to zoom around the walking trail for added fun, too!
You can even reserve the pavilions at Towne Lake through the City of McKinney for parties or family gatherings. So much to see and do at this great location in McKinney….fun for the whole family!!
Stay cool and enjoy the rest of your Summer. We will have more FREE and fun Summer ideas coming your way! If you are looking to buy or sell before the Summer ends, now is still a great time! Give us a call, we would be happy to help!