Trending; Thoughts on home Decor 2024.

Ever look back at your previous homes and thought, what was I thinking, in regards to your decorating choices? If you answer no, then good for you! Some of us here, tend to get swept up in the ever changing design trends, wall colors, and itch to update, update, update.

My first apartment had liquor bottles spread out on the top of the cabinets like decor. I’ll blame my roommate. My second apartment, I decided to paint one dining room wall a shockingly bright orange, the kind of orange that would make a pumpkin proud and others nauseous, only to have to paint it back when I moved out. Since then, I’ve moved another handful of times and each place “needed” paint, or had a bathroom to update, basement to finish, kitchen to gut…you get the idea. It can be exhausting.

As I sit here today at home, I am looking at the walls that I just painted last year on a 12 foot ladder and for multiple days, I was whining and near-crying. Point is, I have an urge to scrap it all and start over again. Green! I need more green, dark and moody green walls. If I do it then I will likley need a new rug, maybe a different light fixture, and probably new throw pillows…and throw pillows can start at $55 a piece….for the cover! I also think about wallpapering….a lot.

Hold up. Settle down.

The point is, trends will always change and since we spend a colossal amount of time online, particulary on social media, we are flooded with new ideas daily, the “best of” everyone else’s stuff, making you feel out of date, wanting things to look picture perfect. Fresh. New, new, new. Cool, cool, cool.

It can be fun if you enjoy doing it for yourself as a creative outlet or expression, but you don’t need to fill your space with other people’s ideas or trends. Your space doesn’t need to be anything other than a place to feel at home, at peace, filled with things that bring YOU comfort & joy. I am mentioning this because I am currently fighting the urge to make unecessary changes to my home.

If this isn’t you and you rarely, if ever, think about this, I love it. Good for you.

If this reasonates with you, I’ll just say this, there are rooms in your home, right now, that are probably just as beautiful as some of the spaces that you see online, you’ve just gotten used to them.

With that said, if you are going to consider refreshing your space, be thoughtful about it. Mindful about the reasons, the choices, and the expense. There are updates and decor that can stand the test of time. Ask a Realtor *wink wink* for valuable suggestions or a friend whose style you admire for ideas. Consider sticking to a nuetral wall color and flaring it up with pops of color on the less expensive items that you can afford to change more often. Make your own art. And get some more plants, that’s never a bad idea.

Just take your time and know your why.

Enjoying September in St. Louis

Experience one of St. Louis’ favorite evenings under the stars! Bring a picnic blanket to Art Hill and enjoy offerings from local food trucks, a stunning fireworks show, and free live music, from beloved movie themes to exciting classical tunes all performed by your SLSO (STL Symphony). We love this event every year! If you have not been — you just must.

Learn more here!

St. Louis Art Museum presents, The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century presents a sweeping art history of hip hop culture and its myriad expressions across the globe. This multidisciplinary and multimedia exhibition examines the resounding impact of hip hop on contemporary art and culture, including its unique contributions to innovations in music, visual and performing arts, fashion, and technology.

Details here!

Join the LGBTQ+ community of St. Louis as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary Festival at Tower Grove Park! This year you'll enjoy food from around the globe and two live-entertainment stages. Shop local with hundreds of vendors and take time to learn about non-profits working to improve quality of life in St. Louis! Add in a roller rink & a parade — it’s a colorful, joyful event for all! 

More information here!

For more cool local events — follow Explore St. Louis.

P.S. Bionic Apples

…are back out for the season! You can find them at STL’s own Merb’s Candies (or Dierbergs). I love keeping one in the frig to slice & share.

If you have any real estate questions, whether buying, selling, vendor referrals, or just curious about your home’s current value - let me know. If you want to meet in person or schedule a phone call, hop on my schedule here. I am always down to grab a cup of coffee, suggest a new album, or chat about the market.

Referrals mean the world to me! Have friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues needing a Realtor. Here I am!

Keep in touch.

Case Study: A day in the life of a Realtor

I was recently invited to a home for a “Listing Appointment”.

• Listing appointment ; interviewing a Realtor to help you sell your home.

After more than an hour of touring the home, answering questions and giving suggestions, the owner asked, “how much can I list it for?” A reasonable question and the most popular topic. Per usual, I explained the current market, the most recent comparable sales nearby, and I eventually gave a range that I felt comfortable with for an initial visit. A range that would likely give them the best outcome; lowest days on market + highest sale price.

I also explained the in’s and out’s of that range. For example, if you do everything we discussed to prep the home (deep clean, fresh paint) and consider staging it, then we are on the higher end of the range for a list price. In the opposite scenario, if you’re not interested in much prep and want the house on the market as-is, the lower of the range might be ideal and strategic.

• Staging ; the activity or practice of styling and furnishing a property for sale in such a way as to enhance its attractiveness to potential buyers.

I left the appointment feeling confident that I could help them and that the meeting went really well. I was ready to get to work and expected to hear from them in the next couple of days.

Of course, before I left, the Seller did ask if we could increase the list price AND if my fees and commission could be reduced. For some context, almost every listing appointment is sprinkled with these questions…expectations…higher profit, lower fees.

• Commission ; a percentage of a property's purchase price that is paid to the real estate agents and brokers that facilitated the purchase and sale of a property.

Real estate agents typically make their money through their commission and do not make a commission (or get paid) unless the house sells. With that said, it isn’t surprising that some people hope or expect this to be an easily negotiable “fee”. Even worse, I get the sense that some Sellers may think that Realtors may try and list their home for less to get a quick sale and make a buck. Yea, it sucks to have to say that…but I think there are a lot of misconceptions about Realtors.

To be clear, I want to sell your house for as much as possible. I want you to net as much as possible. Sometimes, this means listing it for less than you’ve decided it is worth. There are so many factors in play and overpricing is a giant pitfall. A lower list price (within the current market value range) often times ends up with a higher sale price and lower days on market.

Your home is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. In the end, the market will speak for itself.

I am writing this to say, I did not get that listing that I initially mentioned above. I knew the reasons why because I asked. Lower commission and a higher sale price. I saw the listing hit the market this morning and I wasn’t surprised by the list price but it’s significantly higher than I would have advised, operating with the Seller’s best interest in mind.

Now, we are definintely in a “Seller’s Market”, so I believe that their final sale price could likely be around this number but I think strategically, starting lower would have driven even more interest in the property and given “bumpers” to a transaction because the property has a few “cons” that will eventually come to light after the sparkly photos get buyers in the door, writing contracts or performing inspections.

• Seller’s Market ; When real estate demand exceeds supply; too many interested buyers and not enough homes on the market. Since there are fewer homes available, sellers are at an advantage. In a seller's market, homes sell faster and buyers must compete with each other in order to secure a property.

So, I will watch the listing and see what happens. A case study, if you will…

My overall point : If you are considering listing a property and interviewing agents and their list price ranges (or commissions and fees) are broad or confusing, don’t immediately just go with the higher/lower numbers. Ask follow up questions. Circle back and think about the overall strategy…a slightly lower commission and hefty list price won’t mean much when you’re sitting on the market a few extra weeks, making another mortgage payment, and receiving offers under list price in a market where that isn’t the norm.

I love talking this topic and answering questions with brutal honesty. I want to help you make this entire process as pain-free and profitable as possible.

Get on my calendar or invite me over.

Color of the year?

Brave, fearless, pulsating…are just some of the adjectives used to describe Pantone’s color of the year “Viva Magenta”. Yep, you read that right. Magenta. When is the last time you thought about painting a wall Magenta? Cool concept, beautiful color, bold choice!

So, let’s talk about the concept of paint colors in relation to interior design. Do you want a wall color that is trending?

I’m the first to drool over a bold, moody colored wall or room. I love it. With that said, it is quite a commitment to actually slap those paint colors on a wall in your home. Not many people love to paint, plus it can be a costly mistake to correct, if you decide you actually hate it.

So, while I will definitely cheer you on when you make unique and fearless design choice with your wall paint, I would encourage you to start slow and maybe consider sticking to a neutral (warm or cool) on your wall and then test out ALL the daring colors in your less “permanent” decor. Get some bold pillows, throws, art, even flowers!! And if you decide to go bold with a wall paint, pick a color you love and not what’s trending…unless they happen to be the same.

If you want to learn more about Pantone’s color of the year, explore their “Magentaverse” and make sure to take a look at the other colors in the Magentaverse line up, like Pale Dogwood and Agate Gray. **wink wink**

Have a favorite vivid color you’ve painted with? Drop a suggestion below.

To buy or not — that is the question?

This is a friendly reminder for anyone on the fence. You most likely can make the purchase, even if you think you can’t. The best place to start is by asking questions and understanding the process + your reasons “why”. I love talking this topic! Here’s a couple nuggets.

Your house will likely be your biggest asset. This may not be news to you but we all know someone who may still be renting, mostly because the idea of owning can seem overwhelming or they need some help getting started.

Lots of first-time homeowners tend to initially look at buying a home as a debt to incur rather than an asset to obtain but owning a home can help you build wealth and improve your finances. Full stop. Especially, in retirement, it can prove a much-needed source of financial support. That last part is really important and easy to overlook. Oh yea, you will want to retire someday, sooner than later! So, even when you’re 25 years young, having a plan to save as early as possible can be critical to an enjoyable, hopefully healthy and worry-free retirement.

Here are a few simple “why’s” and we’re here if you need more:

1. Home equity! This is the difference between the home's fair market value and the outstanding balance of any liens on the property (i.e., your mortgage). You can tap into that by taking out a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). These can be great options when you need cash or for covering medical bills, paying off higher-interest debts, or funding home improvements.

2. Your home can become a source of income! You can rent out your home. If you rent out a room or the whole home for short- or long-term, you are paying down your mortgage and potentially making some passive income. Make sure to learn about local guidelines & restrictions.

3. You can sell and use the profits. Lots of people of all ages choose to sell their homes and “right-size” to a smaller property at some point. You can use the proceeds to support your travel fund, investments, or retirement — also, a smaller home can be easier to maintain if you like to travel or want less responsibility as you age.

If you have questions, reach out to me! Even if you aren’t ready to buy now…let me help you build the plan. Home-ownership is for all.

Do you know someone on the fence about buying a home? Forward this article. It could change their life… okay dramatic much…but also very true! This could be their sign!

Client Features

YOU HAVE A PERSPECTIVE LIKE NO ONE ELSE! SHARE YOUR STORY.

As a Realtor or as YOUR Realtor, I often wonder how things are going with you since you moved into your new home? Of course, we may stay in touch a little online through social media or random texts…but I find myself wishing I knew more! I usually get to spend a significant amount of time with you, sometimes multiple times a week for months and months and then you close on your new home, you get busy moving, settling in, meeting neighbors, establishing new routines and well, it’s no wonder we drift apart. (((💔)))

I get to meet so many cool & unique individuals that I just know have experiences and stories worth sharing — I feel like it could create more connection within the community!! You could be a new neighbor to another client of mine or someone you’re just dying to meet even though you may not know it yet…an artist, a baker, a plumber, a teacher, a financial advisor, the new member of your new band!

Every now and then, I would love to post a "Client Feature" to share a little about you and your experience with moving, discoveries of your new home, home ownership, your neighborhood loves, local businesses you can’t live without, etc. (no private information, I would never). Your insight could be valuable to others in your community & also fun to share! And I will likely send you a ‘thank you for participating gift’. Read one here.

“Stories are a communal currency of humanity.”

If you’re comfortable, please consider clicking the “Click here to share your story” to participate! It only take a few minutes or less to submit the questionnaire and then click “Email me your photos” to submit photos that you want to use (selfies, new home shots, fur-babies loving their new home, recent updates, neighborhood favs) to create your story!

5 Tips for Buyers in a Crazy Spring Market

This market has been crazy difficult to navigate for buyers. Before you throw in the towel, consider these tips for mindful buying courtesy of yours truly;

1. Do The Homework

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or it’s just been a while, take a refresher course on contracts and contingencies with your REALTOR! Look at all the paperwork together, talk through a mock-offer and all the contingencies one-by-one along with each side’s role and responsibility. It will be much less stressful than having to learn all this under a deadline! You could end up in a situation where you have only a few hours to make an offer and being familiar with the process, the terms, and your options can make a huge difference, strategically and mentally! You don’t need a crash course in competitive offer strategies, potential risks, and probable outcomes under pressure! 

2. Stay Proactive

Try to be as organized about the process as you can, while still having fun. Things are happening so fast! Homes hit the market and then go under contract all in a few days. Stay on top of the “Coming Soon” prospects and try to proactively plan weekly showing “dates” with your REALTOR, maybe on the same day, same time, each week if you can. Take the time to do a drive-by before putting it on the appointment list! Check out the neighborhood, do your homework. You should have a pretty good idea that the home has checked a lot of boxes for you by the time you make an appointment.

3. Keep A Level Head

Know your boundaries! Check your emotions! You have a pre-approval and probably a budget (or at least an idea of what you expected to pay monthly), try to keep this in mind when writing an offer. When you fall madly in love with a home and then find out multiple other buyers also fell madly in love with the same home, it’s understandable that you will want to compete to win! But at what expense? Be smart and make sure your Realtor is ready to talk things through with you. You don’t need an agent who just wants you to win…at any expense. 

4. Don’t Settle!

Don’t start making offers on any house just to get a house! At some point, you may need to take a breather (or extend a lease). If you’ve made multiple strong offers on multiple homes and lost out – you are not alone! Don’t let this get you down and don’t let this put you in a position where you lose sight of what you wanted to begin with. You don’t have to settle! Talk to your Realtor about contingency plans if you need to put a pause on your search for whatever reason! Even if you just skip a week or two & then jump right back in.

5. Evaluate Your Options

Do you need to buy in this Spring Market? That would be my final question to any buyer. I am not sure I would ask the literal question (initially) but I would definitely talk things through with a current or prospective client, their goals vs. needs vs. timeline. I understand how exciting it is to be “ready” to buy, especially if you’ve been planning and saving for awhile. Plus the interest rates have been so incredibly low. However, remember that inventory was also incredibly low in 2020 and a sizable group of buyers that may have sat out last year are back in action. 

All and all, this combination makes things crazy competitive. Right now, it is a very strong “Seller’s Market” and its effects are reflected in the behavior of buyers, which has evolved into what feels like some version of The Hunger Games. If you have any additional questions about buying strategies and best practices, please do not hesitate to reach out. 

The Evolution of a New Buyer

This market has really got me thinking about my relationship and my role with my buyer-clients. Particularly, first-time homebuyers - which I adore working with!

I always try to meet with my new clients (Zoom or FaceTime 2021-style) before we start actually seeing homes together. It not only gives us a chance “to meet” but much more importantly, I can answer any questions they have about the process or paperwork. During this conversation, as of lately, it has become necessary to mention “this market” and its effects on the behaviors of buyers which has evolved into what feels like some version of The Hunger Games.

This is a bit of an uncomfortable conversation because no new buyer wants to hear upfront that this process could be much harder (or expensive) than they thought or were expecting. So, without dampening their spirits, I have to tread a fine line of tapering expectation vs. reality. Being honest and upfront about the competitive nature of the market is definitely necessary but I still struggle a bit with ‘how much and how soon’. I can give an honest overall evaluation of the big picture but the bulk of the reality will be learned through experience and possible disappointment(ssss).

When first-time buyers find a perfect home (but very early on in their search) & want to make their very first offer, this is exciting for them! They expect to have to make a clean, strong offer based on our conversations about the market. However, in early 2021, a perfectly strong (over list price), clean offer just doesn’t cut it…so, here comes “Part 2” of that initial conversation.

“Remember when we talked about this market…well, it appears there are 17 offers on this home already and so if you really want this house, there are some different strategies we should discuss to see if you are comfortable with any of them…” I then have to explain ridiculously competitive, seller-centric, ‘whatever-you-want’ offer strategies plus the potential risks, would-be scenarios, and the probable outcomes. I have to lay all this on a new buyer’s lap and then reassure them that I can get them through it safely and even then - we still may not have our offer accepted. It’s tough.

I can’t tell my clients what to do (or what’s best) - but - I can provide them with valuable information to help them make an educated decision that is best for them with my guidance.

So, when you are going on your fifth or sixth offer with the same clients and they call you to say, “We’ve discussed it. We want to make an offer and this is what we are comfortable with…” and then they proceed to list off aggressive terms like it is standard procedure and without any concern or questions because they have used all the tools you have taught them to evaluate the market values and risks, well, the evolution has occurred.

Of course, we still discuss everything again to be safe and sure…because, I’m me.

While it’s a wild & whacky market for buyers, they are learning so much - and - I feel thankful that I am able to help them navigate this adventure. I have so much more to offer to my clients in 2021’s market…maybe should have titled this, “The Evolution of (my role) a Buyer’s Agent”.

Rent-Shaming

Is there such a thing? Well, sure. I read this term recently in an article and it changed my perspective a bit on this idea and this conversation.

No one knows another person’s motivation for doing (or not doing) anything - unless you ask - and asking someone why they haven’t bought a place of their own can be, well, not cool…really. One can assume that most people know there are benefits to owning rather than renting. So, there must be a good reason that they choose to rent.

If you’re really perplexed at the idea of someone wanting to rent, here’s a super simplistic handful of reasons why renting might work for someone & some reasons to consider buying a place (if you or someone you know is debating):

Even if you mean well, asking someone “why would you rent?” or “why would you throw your money away?” can feel a bit harsh backing someone into a corner feeling obligated to explain things they don’t want to…or maybe THEY JUST LIKE THE FREEDOM OF RENTING, which will make it easier for them to up and move when they want to get away from you and make new friends! 😆

I love working with first-time homebuyers. The process can seem overwhelming but it’s surprisingly not and one of the only good things about 2020 is that mortgage rates are really low. Reach out if you want to ask questions or start a simple plan to get yourself there when the time is right!

"Lonely Garbage Slug"

I recently read an article titled, “How to Work From Home and Not Feel Like a Lonely Garbage Slug” by Rachel Miller, Vice News. Boy oh boy, did that statement capture exactly how I am starting to feel…can you agree? And not to make matters worse but it’s only been about one week. The article had some valid reminders about keeping self care at the center of our “work from home epidemic”. For example, Rachel was pretty spot on when she said, “By day’s end, you’re a shell of your former self: Your hair is greasy, your sweatshirt is covered in bits of the stale tortilla chips you grazed on all day for “lunch,” and your back hurts because you’ve been hunched over your laptop in bed without moving.” I mean…okay, okay, I’ll take it…there is some truth in the statement. Luckily, I still have to go outside to walk my dog but disinfecting all the door handles I touch (when I leave and then again, when I return) is getting a little old. I shall prevail! It’s worth it.

There may be some conflicting information out there but if we continue to err on the side of extreme caution, seeking science, fresh facts, and leaning in on experts (maybe not just Politicians), I think we might be surprised at what a difference we can make, together. “Overreacting” and being overly cautious may be the smartest thing we can do right now.

As of today, Social Distancing is key and one of the few factors we can control. If months from now, it feels like we possibly overreacted than we definitely did something right!

It’s a little bewildering to feel such discord about being home so much but here we are. Keep at it! We can do it. Together.

Be well.

Visit the CDC website

Read Circa Properties COVID-19 Statement

Read Rachel’s Vice News article

Is There a Wrong Time to Rightsize?

: to convert (something) to an appropriate or optimum size.

When I meet with clients, they are generally looking to “upsize” or “downsize” their home. In my experience, upsize usually means purchasing their second home and more times than not, it’s because of a growing family. Downsizing tends to sound more like a conscious choice and can be stereotypically associated with “older age” or retirement. If you’ve recently downsized and do not think of yourself in either of those categories - don't take offense! I literally just downsized myself and I am not retiring anytime soon. In fact, when my husband and I tell people that we decided to downsize because our children have all moved out, they always say, “you don’t look old enough to have children that age!”… which could be a whole other fun blog post.

Point being, we are in our early forties and we’ve recently rightsized (& in this account, it means that we downsized). We recently sold our home that was slightly over 2,300 square feet of living space (the average new single-family home is over 2,600 square feet, according to the United States Census Bureau) and purchased a condo that is a very real 913 square feet with ONE BATH, wait, what?! It has not been as fantastical as we both imagined but approaching the end of our second month in the space, it is starting to make sense. We also made the decision to do a full update to the condo which added another layer of stress but also gave us a chance to make the most of the small square footage by adding some recessed shelving and custom closets (& some pretty stuff too). We still have some purging to do (yes, we still have too much stuff) but it’s little and it’s lovely. Although, I wish we had a running tally of how many times I’ve froze and said, “Shhhhhh, what’s that noise?! Listen!” because it’s been at least 20 years since either of us has had an upstairs neighbor. I’m just glad that we have similar taste in music!

Selling or buying a home always makes the “Top Ten Stressful Events in Life” but when it comes to downsizing, the short-term stresses, without a doubt, overshadow the long-term benefits that may take time to see and feel. Packing and purging takes on a whole new meaning when you are significantly downsizing. Living in a much smaller space takes quit a bit of creativity too. If you need design help with how to Tetris the sh*t out of a closet, I’ll give you my husband’s email.

Our new front yard (which we don’t have to rake).

Don’t get me wrong, there is a great sense of freedom in not having a basement stacked ceiling-to-floor of belongings that you haven’t touched in decades. With that said, there were still moments where I found myself a little bummed that I had to decide if I wanted to keep my corner plant or have room for another chair at the dining room table. I usually get over it pretty quickly though, especially when I remember how much more free time (& money) I will have to do things that house projects and yard work used to monopolize. Oh, and the kids…they don’t need us on a daily basis either. What?!

Point is, our recent move has me much more sympathetic to the stresses my clients are under when they embark on a move. It was a nice reminder that will serve me greatly in 2020. Whether buying or selling, upsizing or downsizing, an organized approach is the framework for success and minimizing stress. Start early. Prioritize your goals. Make a plan. Keep a healthy perspective and try to have fun. I’m here to help! Really. I love what I do and I can help you manage the process through creative solutions, established connections, and a healthy dose of empathy.

Welcome to our new rightsized space: stay tuned for a “before and after” blog post of our reno project soon.

Why is it taking so long to find the perfect home?

Real estate agents not only have access to information and resources that you simply do not - they may also have a passion for what they do!

Yes, today it is incredibly easy and convenient to “shop around” for homes online. Heck, I do it myself even when I am not searching for clients of mine. I love looking at the photography, the character, the charm, the decorating, the layout, the updates, the details, the tile, the tub. I just love it. I even like to check out the backyard to see what an evening around the fire pit will be like. I think you get the point.

The unfortunate crux of working in a career that involves commission is that there is an unspoken assumption, maybe even unconscious bias, that we are out to get your business no matter what and under any circumstance. People are generally hesitant to sign with an agent until it is absolutely necessary. Heck, even agents can be hesitant to push this idea. So, even though this has been said before, it is worth noting again, because every time I say this - it is always someone’s first time hearing it!! Yes. Really.

1. Signing with an agent to represent you as a buyer is a fantastic idea that can cost you nothing! We only get paid after you close on your new home - and - we get paid from the seller’s side. Want to know more? Reach out.

2. Having a Buyer’s Agent work alongside you during your search will save you precious time. We can help provide perspective and valuable information about properties that can help you make an informed decision.

3. And my favorite, we have a fudiciary responsibility exclusively to you. If your searching online for homes (which is perfectly fine) & click on a property to “learn more” or “contact an agent”, chances are you may have contacted the agent who is representing the seller. You want your own trusted agent providing you all the information on a property from a buyer’s perspective & touring the properties through a buyer’s eyes.

So, let down your guard. Start looking online at different realtors, look at their website, their social media, read their reviews, look into the brokerage they work with… see if you vibe with them or you like their “approach”. Reach out to them, meet up with them and see if you like their ideas and their communication-style. If you do, add them to your team by signing with them right away. Let them go to work for you! I bet you find the perfect home twice as fast, if not faster. Also, you’ll be prepared to make an offer when you do.

As a general rule, there are some basic duties that every agent *can do* to manage the process of buying or selling. After all, the process is the process. Liking and trusting your agent is what matters most, so take the time to learn more about them before they become your realtor. Talk to us and not just about real estate; we like to talk about other things too.

We could be working together for weeks, maybe months, so it is just as important to me that we are a good match for each other. Believe it or not, I don’t want to sell every house or represent every buyer. Really.

While the referral from your friend’s father’s lawyer’s golfing partner may be worth checking out so is someone else that just feels “right”.

Hi. It’s nice to meet you.

Word to the wise: Whether or not you decide to work with a buyer’s agent, never rely on the seller’s agent to help you as a buyer. If you call the name-on-the-sign in the yard or the “contact me for more information” you see on the listing online, you are contacting the agent that represents the seller! Will they have your best interest in mind as a buyer? Google the term “Dual Agency”.

Lamination Nation

So, so many buyers are looking at homes that advertise as renovated or updated and while the gleaming solid surface countertops and backsplashes are highly appealing (and beautiful) there seems to be an overabundance of laminate flooring happening. Is it just me?!?

Of course, I can understand the decision to install laminate flooring. Cost. However, it is never as appealing as the original hardwood floors and I have frequently and recently found it a pre-requisite inquiry to showing property, "does the home have laminate flooring or the original hardwood?" 

Laminate flooring can have some positives beyond cost like its durability to scratches and it is easily cleanable but there is definitely value to keeping the original hardwood floors, beyond just monetary. Hardwood is beautiful! And I would venture to guess that there could be a high likelihood that a homebuyer might possibly prefer the idea of the original hardwood floors (over laminate) even if they need some love (& money) down the road. The majestic grandeur of neighborhoods like Shaw, Botanical, and Tower Grove, for example, are highly attractive to many buyers (understandably) and it would be really fantastic to see more of these homes retain some of their original beauty and appeal - aka - the hardwood flooring. *steps off soapbox*

What do you think?

Dear Homeowner, I love your home.

I love your home and here's why you should let me be the one to buy it! 

Do buyers really write letters to a person selling their home when they make an offer? Yes. Is this required? Absolutely not. Is it recommended? In today's market, sure! Why not? 

With us in the midst of a very strong Seller's Market, trying to find a home you love and then actually making an offer quick enough and strong enough can be a challenge for a buyer. And let's be honest, this can also be overwhelming to a seller with potentially so many offers coming in, coming in fast, and with deadlines to respond to said offers. To be clear, this is not a bad "problem" to have...albeit, overwhelming.

We are all attached emotionally to our homes, they are a part of us. So, when you are deciding to hand the keys over to someone new, usually a stranger, sometimes a love letter can go a long way. However, this should never negate the importance of considering strong offers with solid financing and agreeable terms. So, in a situation where a seller has multiple offers that are mostly comparable, knowing their home will be in good hands with someone who appreciates its beauty and charm as much as they have...can make a world of difference, even if the love-letter-writer's offer is for a couple thousand less. Yes, less.

With that said, as a seller, always refer back to your agent to guide you through what details are most important to consider. You don't want to overlook anything- or - let your emotions make the decision for you. Let your realtor help you navigate the process, emotions aside, then sit back and soak up all the warm and fuzzies of the letter as the cherry on top. 

So, buyers, if you feel genuinely inclined & it is sincere - write the letter. Short & simple.

Seller's Market - What does this mean for a buyer?

Cafe Osage & Bowood Farms|Nursery

I love working with buyers. I love that this is such an exciting time for them and that I can help them make their dream a reality. Also, let's be real, I love looking at properties. I am doing it almost always. So, it's a win win.

What isn't a win? When a buyer isn't aware of the current market and today that market is a seller's market. This means there isn't enough inventory for home buyers and great homes that are priced right are going within days sometimes hours of hitting the market. If you are perspective home buyer, even if you "aren't looking seriously", find an agent you like and trust. They can help you organize the process and proactively search for homes that are "coming soon". A good agent will respect your timeline, give you space, and understand your communication-style (not hound you). If the perfect home suddenly lands at your feet, you will have quite an advantage! Especially walking into a crowded open house knowing you have a capable professional in your corner, ready to make a smart and strong offer, when the time is right.

Do not depend on the seller's agent to have your best interest in mind. And do not go frantically looking for an agent last minute. Start looking for a realtor online. You should know pretty quickly if you want to work with someone. We really aren't scummy salespeople, I promise, and there is no obligation to have an agent represent you as a buyer. You should never be asked to pay them a fee, especially upfront. Lets meet for a coffee or tea on me. When you're ready!

Cafe Osage & Bowood Farms|Nursery

4605 Olive Street  St. Louis