August 26th, 2014 at 11:00 am
Residents of Southern California are doing their part to conserve water and follow the restrictions currently in place. But, there’s more you can do right at home to conserve water. Not only will these tips contribute to water conservation efforts, but they will also lower your water bill. The majority of these tips are simple fixes that everyone can do in their home starting today, a few require a bit more planning and maintenance. (more…)
August 25th, 2014 at 11:00 am
As is evident over the last few years, the real estate market ebbs and flows. Sometimes it’s a buyer’s market (many homes for sale, few buyers) and sometimes it’s a seller’s market (many buyers, few homes for sale). The market climate can make a big difference in relation to how much a buyer has to “do” in order to secure their dream home. In Southern California we’ve seen ups and downs, but premiere properties are typically highly sought after, as is the coveted paradise living environment, which makes the real estate climate here more of a seller’s market.
When looking for homes you’ll be competing with others out there who have fallen in love with your dream home. A home-offer letter is written by the buyer in an effort to convince the seller why they should sell their home to the buyer. These letters can be highly effective if executed correctly. However make no mistake, a home-offer letter does not replace a lender’s letter, which is required by many sellers.
A home-offer letter is supplemental information that you can provide to the seller. In your letter you want to demonstrate why you stand out. Answer the question “why should I sell to you?” Don’t be shy when it comes to your emotions. You want to include these in your letter in order to develop a bond with the seller. Avoid turning your letter into a negative or sad story, try to keep any unfortunate situations, events or struggles somewhat upbeat. In order for your letter to have maximum impact you’ll also want to keep it brief. After all, the seller is much more likely to read a one-page letter instead of a five-page letter. (more…)
August 21st, 2014 at 4:30 pm
Now through August 31st the Thompson Building Materials Design Showroom is open in San Diego. Find design inspiration in every room. The showroom features the latest innovative materials and designs available on the market. Outside you’ll find all our patio necessities such as custom furniture, water features, fire pits, BBQ islands and built-in brick pizza ovens. Thompson Building Materials is known for their large selection of masonry and landscape products, stop in for a one-of-a-kind home improvement and design experience.
Location:
Thompson Building Materials Design Showroom
6618 Federal Blvd.
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
August 20th, 2014 at 3:30 pm
When you’re in the process of selling your home, consider what you look for when buying a home. In order to get a buyer to make a purchase, they must feel an emotional tie to the home. Factors like location and price play a prominent part, but by appealing to a buyers’ emotions you’re putting the icing on the cake. An emotional pull is likely to outweigh other factors. One of the easiest ways to create that connection is by creating an inviting sensory experience.
The sense of smell might be the most impactful of all the senses. Think about your own life, do certain smells conjure up both happy and sad memories. Smell can transport you to a different time and place. As a home seller you can use this to your advantage. Start by thoroughly cleaning your home; steam clean carpets, air out closed off rooms and invest in lightly scented air fresheners (be cautious of anything too bold). Pay attention to anything that can cause an unpleasant odor, like garbage cans and dirty laundry, and make sure these areas are cleaned before an open house or showing. If you have notice of an open house or showing, consider baking homemade goodies. Accompany the treats with a handwritten note inviting the guests to sit, relax and enjoy. The aroma and hand written note will make the potential buyer feel right at home and hopefully remind them of fond memories associated with the scent.
On that same note, taste can also be used as a way to build an emotional connection. Set out coffee, fresh baked goods, fruit or even candy. This can help buyers to feel comfortable and leave them with a pleasant impression. (more…)
August 19th, 2014 at 4:00 pm
Nature might just be the ultimate design muse. It makes perfect sense – nature is vast, ever changing, continuously offers new perspectives and allows designers to work in a variety of dimensions. Concepts can come from vegetables, animals, shapes, textures, etc. The possibilities are endless. Elements of nature can have a calming, peaceful and welcoming effect in the home and are an essential part of creating a one-of-a-kind design aesthetic. Accomplishing this in your own home may be easier than you think.
Start by looking at your own walls. Do you have any exposed stone or brick? Using your natural walls as a backdrop is a great way to add texture to any room.
Bring the outdoors into your living room with this stand out coffee table. Not only does it add color and vitality to your room, but it will also be a topic of conversation
Emily Wettstein
