Ready to channel your inner eco-warrior? Give your home lifestyle a green makeover with a few simple tweaks and turn your humble abode into a sustainability superstar.

Set the Tone With Lighting

To begin transforming your home to a green lifestyle, start by examining the way your home is lit. Embrace natural light whenever possible by adding curtains that let you control the brightness. And when it comes to light bulbs, switch to energy-efficient LEDs. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint.

Use Eco-Friendly Alternatives

There are many opportunities where you can swap out environment-harming products for planet-friendly options. Begin by replacing  cleaning materials with ones made with plant-based ingredients. Then, seek ways to reduce waste by opting for reusable items and say goodbye to single-use plastics by replacing them with stainless-steel alternatives. Additionally, when upgrading furniture or appliances, consider energy-efficiency and recycled or reclaimed options to add style and sustainability to your space.

Incorporate Sustainable Practices

Create a home environment in harmony with nature by implementing environmentally friendly practices. Establish conservation policies to reduce waste and water usage – and make composting a part of your daily routine. Also, don’t forget about your outdoor space – plant native species in your garden to support local ecosystems and reduce your carbon footprint.

Maximize Energy Efficiency in Your Home

Take your commitment to sustainability further by investing in programmable thermostats to regulate heating and cooling, sealing gaps and cracks to prevent energy loss and installing solar panels to harness renewable energy. By reducing your energy consumption, you’re saving money and helping to protect the planet.

Every day offers a moment to be an eco-champion. With these minor changes in your home and daily lifestyle habits, you’re well on your way to a greener future!

Spring is widely recognized as the best time to buy a home, and it’s not hard to see why. The season is all about fresh starts and new beginnings, which feels just right when you’re about to make a big decision like purchasing a new home. Learn why now could be the right time to find the perfect place to call your own.

Market Reset and Increased Inventory in Spring

Spring marks the beginning of what is traditionally the busiest period in the real estate market. And after a few years of unpredictable market conditions, Money Magazine anticipates that 2024 could bring a much-needed real estate reset. With economies stabilizing and people adjusting well to post-pandemic lifestyles, the housing market is expected to reflect a more typical bustling season. This influx of listings increases your choices, giving you a better chance of finding a home that fits your exact needs and wants.

The Advantage of Clear Property Evaluations

Winter weather can hide many imperfections, from roofing issues to landscaping woes. As that weather recedes, getting a clear, unobstructed view of each property is easier. The return of milder temps also allows for a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, including the condition of the paint, gutters, roofing and siding. As we move into the warmer months, you’ll also get a good peek at the property’s yard and landscaping – a big deal for many buyers. Seeing the full outdoor potential can really paint a picture of what’s to come, helping you dream up all the fantastic possibilities for your future garden or outdoor oasis.

Optimal Timing for Families

Buying a home in the spring is strategically sound for families with children. It aligns with the academic calendar, allowing families to relocate and settle in before the start of the new school year. This timing eases transitions for children and adults alike, providing the summer months to adjust to a new neighborhood, get all those new home tasks complete, make new friends and prepare for any school or work changes that come with moving.

Negotiation Opportunities 

With the spring market’s rush of activity, there’s a unique push and pull that benefits savvy negotiators. Sellers looking to bounce back from the slower winter months are generally more open to discussions, and buyers are eager to purchase and settle in by summer. This mutual motivation can smooth the path to negotiations, potentially tipping the scales in favor of buyers looking for a good deal.

Spring Shows a Neighborhood’s Character 

Milder weather not only revives trees and gardens but also community life. This uptick in activity can give potential buyers a true feel for the neighborhood’s character and lifestyle. Are the streets filled with playing children or is it a quiet, more reserved community? Is the neighborhood buzzing with local events and gatherings? Viewing a neighborhood in the spring can provide a clearer picture of daily life there. So when you visit an open house, be sure get a feel for the whole area.

While the best time to buy a home is when you’re financially and emotionally ready, March, April and May offer some unique advantages that can enhance the home-buying experience. Increased inventory, the ability to conduct thorough property evaluations, timing that suits family needs, favorable mortgage rates and negotiation potential all make spring an ideal time to take the plunge, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer looking to find the perfect setting for your next chapter.

Will you be one of the millions on the move in ‘24? Starting a new chapter in your life is certainly an exciting way to kick-off a new year! Perhaps along with settling into a new home, you have new intentions for the year, such as being more eco-minded.

Watch how simple steps during your move can support your commitment to living greener:

If we follow these eco-friendly steps, we can reduce moving day waste dramatically. From responsibly clearing your clutter; donating it to those in need; and giving your green business to a company that cares about our earth and you; there is really no better way to start a new eco-conscious chapter.

As winter ends, a burst of activity takes over the property market and potential buyers come calling. During this time, the housing market can also just look more appealing, accented with emerging greenery and the start of colorful blooms. Learn why spring is the best time to sell your home, and why this is prime time in the real estate world.

Peak Real Estate Activity

Traditionally, spring brings an influx of eager home buyers into the market, and that isn’t likely to change in 2024. With the holidays behind them and tax refunds in hand, people can be ready to make significant life changes – including finding a new home. This convenient timing can also give those new homeowners the summer to settle in before the kids start back at school. Plus, the increased housing demand in March, April and May often leads to quicker sales and more favorable offers – another big pro for home sellers in the coming months.

Spring is Open House Season

The less extreme weather also provides the perfect backdrop to showcase your home in its best light. With the milder temperatures kicking in for a lot of the country by mid-March and longer days ramping up everywhere, potential buyers can be more inclined to attend an open house, spotlighting your home’s warm and inviting atmosphere in-person.

Perfect Time for Home Improvements

The spring months are also ideal for touching up the exterior with a fresh coat of paint or fixing the roof if winter was a little rough on it. First impressions are super important to home buyers, and they’re more likely to fall in love with a home that looks well-kept and inviting. Nothing scares off a buyer faster than the thought of high-cost repairs down the line. So, start planning those tweaks and updates now.

Yards Look Their Best

Never underestimate the power of a picture-perfect home exterior. And that means curb appeal! Trimming the hedges, cleaning walkways or setting up a cozy front porch seating area can go a long way in convincing potential buyers to envision themselves living in and loving your home. This is also a fabulous time to consider all outdoor spaces. Landscaped yards and unique outdoor entertaining areas can make a lasting impact that will make them want to act fast.

Advantages of Listing with an Agent

If you do sell this spring, consider the benefits of working with a professional – specifically a Coldwell Banker® affiliated agent. From understanding the intricacies of your local real estate market to navigating the hyper-competitive spring selling season, they’ll have you covered. Plus, their expert marketing includes professional photography, targeted online advertising and more. Interested? Connect with an agent today to get started.

It’s true! Spring is the best time to sell your home. But here’s an insider tip – don’t wait for the rush to kick in. Dive in now, get ahead of the game and be ready to show when the market heats up.

When making a lasting impact, your home’s curb appeal is the first thing that catches the eye. Whether you’re looking to sell or want to enjoy a welcoming entrance this spring, these tips will help you spruce up the exterior charm of your home.

A Splash of Color Matters

A simple touch can make a huge impact. One of the quickest ways to freshen up a space is to introduce a bold or complementary color for the exterior palette. You could be trendy and add a splash of Upward, Sherwin Williams 2024, color of the year to your front door or include accents to infuse pops of pizazz.

Lush Greenery for the Win

Don’t underestimate the power of greenery and well-maintained landscaping. Plant colorful flowers, trim overgrown bushes and add potted plants to create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, placing hanging window box planters is a great way to create a visual separation for more intimate outdoor areas.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Illuminate your entryway with stylish outdoor lighting fixtures to add sophistication and create a warm nighttime ambiance. From the garden and pathways to water features and strategically placed motion wall lights, there are so many ways you could spark a mesmerizing allure after the sun goes down.

Upgrade Your Mailbox Game

Your mailbox can express your home’s personality, and replacing it with a stylish one that complements your home’s architecture can make a big difference. From revamping the materials of the post to granite, brick masonry or tree-branch wood to surrounding it with planters or lighting, the mailbox opportunities are endless.

Statement House Numbers

Prominent, easy-to-read house numbers in a style that aligns with your home’s aesthetic can add a touch of personality. Consider different materials, placements and surrounding finishes when deciding what will work with your home’s unique architectural style.

Clean and Tidy Walkways

Pressure-wash your entry paths, repair cracks or add decorative stones for an extra expression of inviting elegance. It may seem daunting, so prioritize must-fix and mostly seen spaces. Also, you should consider walking through your property to make a list of the areas that need a little TLC.

Charming Furniture and Décor

Create a cozy outdoor space with a bench or welcoming lounge chair to make your home stand out. Whether it is on your porch or backyard patio, you’ll want to consider its durability against weather and comfort. You can extend your living space to a beautiful nature-centered oasis.

Front Porch Appeal

A great way to weave in a creative flair that sets the tone for the interior is to extend décor to the front porch. Add cushions, throws, a decorative wreath or monograms to establish an inviting ambiance.

The little details make the difference – let your home’s outdoor space shine.

If you share your home with a pet or two (or five), you know their well-being is a top priority. Along with making a move less stressful for them, learning how to pet-proof your home should be high on the list for responsible pet owners. Read on to know what to look out for and how to make your home a comfortable and secure place for everyone.

Kitchens

Start your pet-proofing mission in the kitchen, as it has a lot of potentially dangerous and tempting items for your four-legged friends. Ensure cabinets are secure to prevent access to cleaning supplies, cutlery and any unauthorized treats – child-proof cabinet locks are an excellent option here. Some human foods can be life-threatening for dogs and cats, so promptly store items like chocolates, crackers and leftovers away or you could be making an unexpected trip to the emergency vet. Garbage bins should have lids or be kept inside cabinets, as pets can get into trash hunting for a bonus meal.

Living Rooms

You probably spend a lot of quality time with your pets in your living room, which also deserves a careful going-over. Keep small objects, like breakable decorative pieces and children’s toys, out of reach. Electrical cords should be concealed or secured, as they present a chewing temptation for many animals. Certain houseplants can also be toxic for your fur babies, so you’ll want to eliminate any dangerous varieties.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

In bedrooms, keep your clothes, shoes and personal items stowed away since anything can become a fun chew toy, especially for dogs. Secure medications, razors and other sharp objects away from curious paws and noses. And while a cat lying on the bathroom floor surrounded by a roll of unspooled toilet paper seems like it’d be great photo op, it’ll be a pain to clean up. Consider keeping doors closed when you’re not around.

Yards, Patios and Decks

If your pets spend considerable time outside, you’ll want to provide a shaded area and fresh water to prevent overheating in hot weather. Also, think about installing a pet door if you do have an enclosed outdoor space like a catio or dog run, making it easy for them to get outside safely. Plus, animals can be notorious escape artists, so securely latch all non-pet doors and windows to prevent any unexpected breakouts.

Create Pet-Friendly Spaces

Pet-proofing is not only about forbidden areas and potential harm – it’s also about making cozy and pet-specific areas for your animals. Your pets deserve to love their home as much as you do, so give them their own spots, like napping nooks and comfortable hiding places. Dogs might appreciate a snuggly bed in a quiet corner, while many cats love hanging out in a felted cat cave. Designate an area for pet toys, like a stylish basket or bin. This will make picking up a breeze and your pets will know where to go when it’s time to play.

Creating a safe environment by knowing how to pet-proof your home is vital to being a good pet owner. And with a little effort, you can make your house a haven for the whole family.

As temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, now is the perfect time for a spring home sale. In fact, real estate data provider ATTOM found that properties sold in April, May and June garnered the highest returns over the last 12 years. If you want to take advantage of the season’s vibrant energy and high demand, here’s what you can do to ensure a successful  sale.

Maximize Your Curb Appeal

Spring is the ideal season to show off the beauty of your home and capture buyer interest before they even step through the front door. Nothing is more inviting than a freshly mowed lawn, blooming flowers and well-manicured trees and shrubbery. Buyers will notice the details, so it also pays to have your home and driveway power washed and gutters cleaned. Even small improvements like a new mailbox, welcome mat or porchlight can make a big impact.

Do a Deep Clean

Your home should sparkle from the floorboards to the ceiling fans. Buyers pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, so you’ll want to address tiling, grout lines and appliances. Replace shelf liners and shower curtains and have the carpets and curtains cleaned as well. And don’t forget about hidden spots, like the cabinet under the sink and the area behind the refrigerator. A pristine home shows buyers that the property has been taken care of, giving them more confidence to put in a competitive offer.

Address Repairs and Upgrades

You don’t have to renovate your home to get a quick sale. Some minor upgrades can significantly enhance the property’s overall appeal. A fresh coat of paint, for example, can change the entire feel of your home. Choose neutral colors and keep the palette consistent throughout the interior. You can also replace outdated drawer pulls, knobs and faucets. If your budget allows, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances and/or countertops, as these are important features that buyers will appreciate.

Declutter and Depersonalize

A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal items and unnecessary objects to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad audience. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos and knickknacks. Keep kitchen and bathroom counters clear and consider removing a piece or two of furniture from each room to enhance its spaciousness. Bare walls can make the home seem sterile, so hang tasteful artwork that doesn’t overpower the room.

Lighten up the Interior

Spring offers abundant natural light, making your home appear expansive and inviting. Clean your windows thoroughly to allow for maximum sunlight and keep your curtains and blinds open during showings.  Now is also a good time to replace lightbulbs to create a warm ambiance throughout the residence.

As you prepare for a spring home sale, your agent will guide you through other key considerations, like pricing the home competitively, arranging professional photography and engaging buyers across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Together you can make your property stand out in this season’s blooming real estate market.

If you’ve been thinking about selling your home in the winter months, there’s no reason for cold feet. Now is the perfect time to get ahead of the spring rush and take advantage of today’s fast-paced market. As you make your decision, consider the many benefits that come with listing during the off-season.

 Less Competition

Fewer homes on the market means your property will get more attention from buyers. You also have the opportunity to more easily make your home stand out from the competition. With the help of your agent, you can check out comparable properties, highlight your home’s unique features and market it for wide-scale appeal. Selling your home in winter is also a great time to accentuate its energy-saving features, like double-paned windows, updated HVAC systems and insulated attics and basements.

Motivated Buyers

Buyers looking during the winter months often have an urgent reason to find a new home. Whether they’re moving because of job relocation, an expiring lease or changing family circumstances, they tend to be more determined to make strong offers to close quickly. Smart buyers also understand that they need to get a jump on the spring market to avoid the competition of the current low inventory-high demand environment.

Year-Round Online Buyers

With today’s interactive real estate portals and increased social media marketing, buyers can learn about and shop for homes any time of the year. They don’t necessarily need to visit properties in person to narrow down their selection. That’s why it’s essential to work with an agent who understands that quality photography and engaging video are key to maximizing online buyer appeal. Your agent can also assist with real or virtual staging to further capture buyer interest, allowing them to imagine themselves cozied up by the fireplace or enjoying family meals around the dining table.

Easier Landscaping

Selling your home in winter generally means less time and money spent on improving curb appeal, yet another benefit of listing off-season. It’s much easier to keep foliage trimmed and looking nice as opposed to during the lush spring and summer months. Now may also be a good time to purchase a new mailbox or welcome mat, subtle elements that can make an impact.

Although the housing market slows down during the winter months, you can still achieve a successful outcome. Limited inventory actually presents an opportunity to show your home’s full potential to motivated buyers, leading to a quicker, less hectic, more profitable sale.

The 2023 housing market has seen many ups and downs, leaving investors wondering what to expect in 2024. The good news is that regardless of interest rate increases and lower than average inventory, real estate investments remain one of the most lucrative areas to invest in as we head into the new year.

High Demand Means High Return

One of the central trends that defines the market today is low inventory and high demand. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of REALTORS®, “Lack of supply is behind ongoing multiple offer scenarios on moderate- to mid-priced homes.” This demand is also fueling rising home prices, which NAR predicts will increase from an average of $384,900 in 2023 to $395,000 in 2024. This “seller’s market” can work in favor of the investor. Those who purchase, upgrade and list a property could see a quick sale and solid return. For investors waiting to list a property they already own, now is the time.

Mortgage Rates Expected to Stabilize

Although interest rates have been nearing 7% recently, Fannie Mae predicts an average rate of 6.5% in 2024. This could lead to more buyers entering the market in late 2024 and into 2025. Strong job growth may also contribute to buyer demand. The Federal Open Market Committee forecasts the unemployment rate to average a “healthy” 4.1%, an important factor that should positively impact the real estate market as a whole.

Consumer Confidence is Growing

Investors will be happy to learn that consumer confidence is rising, a positive sign of good things to come. According to the Coldwell Banker® 2023 International Consumer Survey, a significant number of respondents say they are optimistic about the state of the U.S. real estate market. In fact, 80% of luxury consumers believe purchasing real estate in the United States is a safe investment, and 76% rate the current market conditions to purchase a home as “excellent” and/or “good.”

New Construction on the Rise

To answer the housing demand, new builds are expected to increase next year. The National Association of Home Builders predicts that single-family production will rise from an average of 744,000 units in 2023 to 925,000 in 2024. Newly constructed homes could not only be a promising investment opportunity – they are also expected to lessen demand and help stabilize home prices.

Rental Property Remains a Reliable Investment

Although most experts predict that rent growth to decelerate in 2024, rental property is still a reliable real estate investment. People who take advantage of the market by selling their current home often need to move into a rental unit as they transition, ensuring investors have plenty of potential lessees. Rental income also helps offset higher mortgage rates for the investor, and rental property offers owners the benefits of long-term appreciation and various tax breaks.

Buyers are Motivated

Regardless of market trends, life goes on, and housing needs evolve. Retirees, growing families and divorcing couples don’t often have the luxury of waiting for the perfect time to move. Investors should also consider the increased mobility that comes with work-from-home buyers. Many are heading to more affordable regions, leading to pockets of growth that investors can take advantage of.

Whether the market is trending up or down, smart investors pay close attention to current trends and adjust their strategy accordingly. Once you understand the real estate landscape, you can confidently plan your next move.

With 2024 on the horizon, many homeowners are seeking ways to enhance their property and increase its value. Whether you plan to sell your home in the new year or simply want to update its style and livability for yourself, strategic home improvement projects can make a significant impact.

Spruce Up the Exterior

First impressions matter – a well-maintained exterior can greatly enhance curb appeal. Start by giving your home a fresh coat of paint, if needed, to refresh its appearance. Also, consider updating or repairing your siding, replacing old windows and adding attractive landscaping to create eye-catching charm in the neighborhood.

Upgrade the Kitchen

The kitchen is often thought of as the heart of the home, and it can have a significant impact on your house’s worth and your comfort. Think about upgrading key features such as countertops, cabinetry and flooring. If your budget allows, replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can also be a major selling point and save you money in the long run. Additionally, new wall paint, updated light fixtures and a stylish backsplash will create a space where you can enjoy preparing meals and entertaining friends.

Enhance the Bathroom

Bathrooms are another crucial area for home improvements that can influence value. Start by updating fixtures, like faucets, showerheads and towel racks, to create a sleek and cohesive look throughout the space. Consider replacing worn-out tiles or regrouting existing ones to refresh walls and floors. Several DIY cosmetic updates can also produce a big splash and make your bathroom shine.

Create an Outdoor Oasis

Today, many homeowners are valuing outdoor spaces more than ever, and that probably won’t change. Creating a functional and appealing outdoor area can significantly enhance your home’s charm. You might want to build a deck or patio to entertain and host outdoor meals and get-togethers. But why stop there? Add in comfortable seating, install outdoor lighting and consider investing in professional landscaping for an extra living space in the summer months or year-round, depending on your climate.

Make Smart Upgrades

In our eco-conscious society, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after – so consider making earth-friendly upgrades to your property. Replace old windows with double or triple-pane glass windows, add insulation to prevent heat loss and install green appliances. Solar panels can also be a fantastic investment. These improvements decrease energy consumption and appeal to homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact.

The upcoming new year presents an excellent opportunity to invest in home improvement projects that can boost your property’s value and make your home more comfortable and cost-efficient for years to come.