It’s that time of year when you have free reign to frighten family and friends with yummy little concoctions. We’ve rounded up some favorites, listed here from easiest to more complicated, to spook your guests in a good way!

Mummy Hot Dogs

First up are some adorable mummified hot dogs. Simply wrap store-bought crescent rolls around hot dogs and add mustard or ketchup to create mummy eyes after baking. It’s an easy-to-grab appetizer that’s also kid-friendly and can be prepped in advance.

Frankenguac

This is the mad scientist project you’ve been waiting for – and it’s a fun one to have kids help customize. Blue tortilla chips arranged as monster hair? Yes! It’s a Frankenstein twist on classic guacamole that’s elevated with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Spider Deviled Eggs

In this Halloween take on the retro appetizer, black and green olives become tiny spiders perching spookily atop each egg. Bonus: All your goblins get a healthy dose of protein with this snack.

Candy Corn Crispies

A fun twist on the popular marshmallow and rice cereal dessert. This version is layered with orange and yellow food coloring to resemble the iconic candy. These treats are an ooey-gooey addition to any Halloween gathering.

Halloween Candy Bark

Who doesn’t love an easy bark recipe? This one features white chocolate and is packed with Halloween-themed candies, sprinkles and pretzels for some crunch. It’s also customizable and perfect for sharing with a large crowd.

Ghost Cupcakes

These spooktacular cupcakes are rich and chocolatey, getting a flavor boost from brewed coffee. White frosting is piped on and adorned with mini chocolate chips to resemble ghost eyes.

Jack O’ Lantern Cake

It’s a showstopper dessert with a toothy grin! You’ll save some time by starting with a cake mix. The layered cake is shaped and decorated to resemble a jack o’ lantern, and then topped with an orange marshmallow cream frosting.

Brain-Shaped Gelatin Mold

Get the attention of your guests with this realistic brain-shaped gelatin. The gross factor will be off the charts! While this version contains alcohol, you can easily trade out the peach schnapps for juice or water.

Ready to scare up some goodies? Try out one of these Halloween treats – whether you’re looking for something easy and fun or something more complex and hauntingly impressive.

Ah, the power of an inviting outdoor facade! If you’re selling your home, it’s important to set the right tone outside so shoppers know to expect a fantastic interior. But it’s also just fun to enjoy the warm fall fuzzies when pulling in your own driveway. Here are some fall curb appeal ideas that are easy to pull off – and best yet, won’t break the bank.

Visit the Pumpkin Patch

Head to the nearest pumpkin patch and choose your favorites!  You can flank your doorway with a few or get creative arranging clusters of pumpkins and gourds in various shapes, sizes and colors. You can dress up the display and add height by mixing in hay bales, crates or decorative baskets. For more bursts of fall color, you can also add gourds to other landscape areas such as gateways and gardens.

Plant Autumn Flowers

Mums, pansies and asters are excellent choices for fall. They can be planted in the front areas of plant beds for instant fall interest. You can also display them in pots or window boxes to add vibrant touches. While technically not flowers, other striking options include ornamental kale and cabbage.

Add Hardy Grasses

Along with annual plants, fall is a great time to incorporate switchgrass, fountain grass or blue fescue into your landscaping. These additions introduce texture and movement to your garden and can withstand cooler temperatures.

Highlight the Front Door

With cooler temperatures, fall is an ideal time to give your front door a fresh coat of paint. Choose a bold color to make a statement. Create a warm welcome by hanging a seasonal wreath made of natural materials like berries and twigs, along with touches of autumn foliage. You can also swap out your summer doormat for one with a fall theme or greeting.

Illuminate Your Landscape

Fall brings shorter daylight hours, so why not brighten up your landscape and highlight your home’s best features. Guests will appreciate the glowing welcome! Use spotlights to accentuate specific areas, such as driveways or large trees. Solar stakes are a good way to illuminate a walkway and come in a variety of styles and price ranges. As a bonus: Landscape lighting enhances security.

Welcome fall with open arms and enjoy the year’s most colorful season. Try one or all of these affordable ways to make the most of autumn and showcase your home.

Picture yourself escaping reality now and then? Whether you’re just dreaming about a vacation home or ready to start shopping, it’s crucial to consider a variety of factors before jumping into such a big investment of your time and resources.

Weigh Financial Implications

Be clear on your why. Are you searching for a personal retreat, strictly an investment property, or will it be a mix of both? Once you know your goal, establish a realistic budget that takes into consideration ALL the expenses of owning a second property. For example, your quaint seaside property might come with hefty insurance costs if there are higher risks of natural disasters like flooding or hurricanes. If you’re counting on rental income, plan for a reduction in that income stream to cover the costs of a property management company, unless you’ll manage it yourself. Also set aside funds for property taxes and ongoing maintenance costs. Finally, check with your accountant about the tax ramifications, especially if you’re receiving rental income.

Assess the Location

Location is paramount when it comes to purchasing a vacation property. If you’ve only visited during peak tourist times, will you enjoy going there as much when things have quieted down? Will all your favorite hotspots be closed in the offseason? Also consider seasonal weather changes. If you’d like to use your retreat all year, will you embrace the fall and winter as much as the summer? Distance is also a factor. If you plan on visiting frequently, is a long drive realistic with your schedule or will you need to build in even more time and money for airfare?

Consider Long-Term Needs

Most likely you’re thinking of a vacation property as a longer-term investment. If it’s mainly for personal use, consider your changing needs over the years. If your children are grade-school age now, will you still have open weekends for traveling when their schedules become busier? As your family grows, will there be enough activities at the vacation home to accommodate everyone’s evolving interests? Finally, zoom out 20 or 30 years. Will you mind scaling stairs to get to the master bedroom or navigating a dirt road to reach your cabin tucked deep in the woods?

A vacation home is an exciting endeavor! Before getting too far along in the dreaming, reach out to a local real estate agent who can offer you a detailed market analysis to find the right property for you.

As the weather cools, you’re officially entering some of the coziest days of cooking and baking! Whether you’re hosting a gathering for friends or want to treat your family to a special fall-themed breakfast, check out this collection of delicious autumn recipes.

Appetizers Infused With Fall Flavors

These Cranberry Brie Bites combine crescent dough, brie, cranberry sauce and fresh rosemary. They’re perfect for large get togethers and take less than 30 minutes to make. For a twist on classic hummus, try this savory Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Pumpkin Hummus. It’s ready in just five minutes and pairs nicely with pita chips or veggies.

Breakfasts Featuring Seasonal Favorites

Surprise your family with a warm, inviting fall breakfast. This Apple Dutch Baby Pancake, baked in one pan, comes out delightfully puffy and is best served right out of the oven. For a more savory breakfast option, this Healthy Sweet Potato and Bacon Breakfast Casserole is loaded with veggies and protein.

Dinners Offering the Ultimate in Comfort

It’s time to break out the slow cooker! Let it work its magic with this Set-It-And-Forget-It Pot Roast. Serve with egg noodles or potatoes for a hearty, melt-in-your-mouth dinner. Put a new spin on a classic by skipping the red sauce with this Butternut Squash Lasagna. It’s easy to assemble and is ideal for Sunday dinner or big crowd.

Desserts Capturing the Essence of Autumn

This classic Best Pumpkin Pie recipe is a must-have for any fall dessert lineup. This version features a rich and creamy filling made with pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk and fall spices – all encased in a flaky pie crust. For a decadent treat, this Caramel Apple Poke Cake is made with chopped apples, heavy cream and dulce de leche, and is topped with a fluffy frosting.

Along with the changing leaves, crisp air and shorter days, enjoy the comforting ritual of fall cooking and baking. Share the many flavors of autumn with one of these yummy recipes!

Sellers, take note and embrace the holiday joy! If you’re planning to list your home this season, early fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the market. You’ll face less competition and buyers will be highly motivated to settle into new digs in time to ring in the new year.

1. Less Competition

During spring and summer, there are historically more homes on the market. During the holidays, there are typically fewer listings, making it easier for your home to really stand out and shine to potential buyers.

2. More Serious Buyers

Amid the hubbub, people are extra busy gift shopping and attending celebrations. Consequently, you’re not likely to get many just-looking buyers. Anyone home shopping during the holidays will be more focused and more likely to make a strong initial offer.

3. End-of-Year Financial Advantages

Finalizing a home sale before the end of the year can provide potential financial benefits, such as deductions on property taxes, mortgage interest and other home-related costs.

 4. Job Relocation Season

Since January is a common window for job relocations, buyers may need to settle into a city and home by the end of the holiday season. Your home may be the answer to their relocation prayers!

5. Faster Closings

Since everyone is busy decking the halls, buyers and sellers will both be interested in moving things along expeditiously. And because all the professionals involved for a sale will have fewer closings on their plate, your transaction will get even more attention.

6. Cozy Vibes

While winter weather can be daunting, nothing beats coming in from the cold to a warm, cozy home adorned for the season. Just turn up the heat, have a yummy treat in the oven and be sure to keep your sidewalks clear of snow and ice. Along with your festive outdoor lights, you’ll appeal to buyers’ sentimentality with all the decorative touches.

Listing your home during the most festive time of the year can lead to more serious and qualified buyers – and a fresh start for the new year. Contact your local Coldwell Banker® agent to get a jump start on listing your home in time for the holidays.

Going green is easier than you think! Small changes around your home can make a big impact on the environment, your health and your bank account. Try implementing these affordable ways to improve the overall quality of your home life.

Insulate and Seal Drafts

Adding insulation to your attic or walls can reduce energy loss and also keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Sealing gaps around windows and doors prevents drafts and saves energy.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Consider installing an upgraded thermostat, which automatically adjusts the temperature based on your schedule. The result is that you conserve energy when you’re not home and optimize comfort when you are.

Unplug Electronic Devices

While you’re sleeping, did you know your devices might be driving up your electricity bill?  Even when powered down, plugged-in items like computers, countertop appliances, video game consoles and other electronic gadgets could be gobbling up energy.

Consider Energy-Efficient Appliances

If your budget permits, consider upgrading your dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine or other appliances to more energy-efficient models. While there’s an up-front cost, you can save money over the long term. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program, household appliances account for nearly 11% of energy use in an average house.

Switch to LED Lighting

Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights will reduce energy consumption and lower your electricity bill. Savings are significant. For example, Energy Star-certified LED lighting uses 90% less energy than incandescent lighting and lasts 35 to 50 times longer.

Close Curtains and Blinds

Here’s a simple tip that won’t cost you a dime! On hot, sunny days, keep your blinds or curtains closed to keep the heat out and reduce AC use. In colder weather, close window coverings to minimize heat loss.

Establish Eco-Friendly Cleaning Routines

Choosing biodegradable or non-toxic cleaning products will reduce the number of harmful chemicals in your home. You can even make your own cleaners using pantry staples like baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar. Establish other good habits, like only running the dishwasher or washing machine when it’s a full load to cut down on energy use.

Green living is achievable with some simple steps. Not only will you reduce your environmental footprint, but your home will be more comfortable and you’ll reap tangible cost savings over time.

Condominiums have long been a great housing option, especially in urban areas, and today’s upscale amenities are only increasing buyer demand. With luxury features and a plethora of services, the modern condo has become much more than just a living space – it is a curated experience offering the perfect blend of convenience, community and entertainment.

Full-Service Living

Condos are evolving into all-in-one complexes that cater to multiple lifestyle needs. This means concierge services that go beyond the basics – think personal shopping, luxury salons, at-home dining delivered from on-site restaurants and even event planning. In a fast-paced world, the gift of time is invaluable, making these convenient sought-after amenities ideal for busy residents.

 Health and Wellness Centers

Today’s condo residents don’t just desire gyms – they’re looking for wellness sanctuaries. Standard fitness facilities are expanding into comprehensive wellness centers that feature state-of-the-art equipment, yoga studios and on-demand virtual classes. Saunas, steam rooms and massage therapy suites are also becoming commonplace, offering tranquility without the travel.

Outdoor Oasis

The craving for outdoor space has cascaded onto condo amenity trends, manifesting in expansive terraces, communal gardens, outdoor kitchens and swimming pools for laps and lounging alike. These luxuriously appointed extensions of indoor living are designed for entertainment, relaxation and reconnection with nature.

High-Tech Hubs

As remote employment becomes more and more prevalent, condos have adapted to include dedicated work areas complete with high-speed internet, private pods and conference rooms equipped with the latest technologies. Forget the daily commute – the new workspace is an elevator ride away, the ultimate in productivity and proximity.

Pet-Friendly Perks

Recognizing furry friends as family members, condos are incorporating pet-friendly amenities that pamper both pets and their owners. On-site pet spas, dog walking services and even private parks or rooftop dog runs ensure that four-legged residents live as lavishly as their human counterparts.

Bespoke Entertainment

Entertainment amenities are on the upswing, with condos offering private movie theaters, game rooms and sports simulators. Residents can enjoy a blockbuster or a round of virtual golf without even leaving the building. Some developments are also positioning themselves as cultural hubs, with on-site art galleries and music rooms that nurture creativity.

As preferences evolve, so do condo amenities, reflecting a collective pursuit of holistic living that’s equal parts leisure and productivity. These trends also reveal a move toward thoughtful craftsmanship, where convenience meets luxury and the everyday becomes the extraordinary.

Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family in the open air, and hosting an outdoor dinner party is a great way to catch up while enjoying the season. Planning a summer soirée might seem daunting. With a few simple touches and thoughtful food items and activities, your alfresco dinner party can come together with ease – and be a hit with your guests.

Setting Party Vibes

Subtle, strategically placed seating, lanterns, tiki torches or string lights can create a low-key festive arena. Encourage natural progression by creating pathways with your lights. You could flow from an area with cushions or blankets in cozy picnic-style seating to a large table with snacks and drinks. Then, continue the movement to a purposely open space with classic lawn games or activities. With these simple arrangements, you can transform regular yard space into an outdoor party ambiance with little to no fuss.

Simple, Savory Outdoor Food

Now the ambiance has the party vibes flowing, the food can bring in the seasonal flavor and tantalize more than taste. When thinking of outdoor treats, keep to the classic and simple ones that instantly bring the smells of summer. Bruschetta for an appetizer and quintessential grilled, marinated meats, vegetables and seafood for the main course are easy to make and delicious. For dessert, consider berries with whipped cream or a berry parfait for a light, fluffy, effortless option. You could even add a firepit and make s’mores as the evening rolls in.

Outdoor Party Entertainment for All

Complete your party with traditional entertainment that requires minimum setup. Lawn games like bowling, cornhole or badminton are easy to incorporate. For a more relaxed activity, you could set up a small outdoor movie screen. Consider showing a well-known film and encourage commentary with questions, quotes or fun facts along the way.

With a bit of creativity and simple arrangements, your outdoor dinner party can come together with ease and be remembered by friends and family as a remarkable summer get-together.

Finding your dream home in today’s market needs to go beyond casual searches, checking out a few open houses and hoping for the best. You need a buyer’s agent – a real estate professional focused on your wants and requirements. They can bring a wealth of experience and resources that can be game-changing during your house hunt. Here’s a closer look at some of the benefits they offer.

Early Access to Listings

One key benefit of having a buyer’s agent is immediate access to new listings as soon as they’re available. Being among the first to see a property in a competitive market can be crucial. Buyer’s agents leverage their industry intel and skills to ensure you’re always ahead with rapid alerts on newly listed homes.

Neighborhood Insights

Whether you’re brand new in town or a local, a buyer’s agent is your go-to source for the inside scoop on everything from schools to the finer details like HOA costs and zoning considerations. If you’re not from the area, they can give you a crash course on the ideal spots to suit your lifestyle, whether that’s the most family-friendly neighborhoods, the towns with hip eateries and shops nearby, or areas with the easiest commute options. They also often have access to deeper insights that might not be common knowledge, like upcoming issues that could affect your property’s value.

Streamlining Pre-Qualification

Want to show sellers you really mean business? Get pre-qualified for a mortgage. Buyer’s agents have connections with trusted lenders to streamline this process. This action does two big things – it shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear picture of what you can afford. That way, you’re looking at homes within your budget from the start.

Pricing Assistance 

Keeping up with real estate trends, like when prices drop or a house is about to go off the market (that’s what pending status means), is crucial for your home buying strategy. Your agent will keep an eye on all these things, making sure you’re always in the loop. This info is super important because it helps you decide whether to make an offer now or wait it out for a better deal. It’s all about making smart moves at the right time.

Appealing Offers

In a tight buying environment, how you present your offer matters. Buyer’s agents know how to craft offers that grab attention, combining the right terms and conditions to catch the seller’s eye while still looking out for your best interests. They’re pros at locating that sweet spot where the offer meets the seller’s needs but ensures your interests are protected, too.

Comprehensive Services

The journey doesn’t end with finding the perfect home. Your agent can also connect you with all the essential services needed, from home inspections to insurance to moving companies. Each step of the way, they can make sure you have reliable professionals to handle every aspect of your home purchase, easing the transition into your new space.

A savvy buyer’s agent brings all this and more to your real estate experience, transforming the process into a guided journey toward your dream home. With their assistance, even the trickiest markets can offer promising opportunities for buyers ready to make a move.

Moving across town? Moving across a state? Which move is considered a “local move?”  This is a common topic of confusion. For most states, local moves are considered moves within the same state. However, there are some states, such as California, where only moves that are less than 100 miles are considered local moves.

I predict your next question is – why do I need to know? It’s because knowing whether your move is classified as a local, long distance or intrastate determines how expensive your move could be.

Once you have determined if your move is local, here are key factors that will determine the cost of your local move:

Factors that affect the price of local moves:

The cost for local moves is mostly based on the number of movers needed, the time it takes to move your belongings and the drive time between your old and new residence. Some other factors that affect price include:

• What is the size of your home?
• How much stuff do you have?
• How many boxes and other packing materials do you need?
• Have you already packed your belongings yourself?
• Can our truck park close to your home?
• Any hard to move items? Grand piano? Stairmaster? Giant penguin statue?
• How much packing and/or unpacking would you like your movers to do for you?

Best money saving tip

The best way to truly save on the cost of your local move is to choose a moving company based on their reputation. Make sure they have provided stellar service to their clients for years.