November

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”The countdown is on — only 60 days left in 2021!

That means you got just 60 mornin’ cups of Joe to pull off the holidays AND get after those pesky goals still hanging around the bottom of your 2021 to-dos.

The good news is if those goals have ANYTHING at all to do with real estate, I’m here to help!

Wanna buy, sell, or create a step-by-step plan to do so before the end of the year? DM me right now, and let’s get after it together!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”It’s November, and even though it’s a lot cliche and a little early, I can’t let one more day go by without thanking YOU — my followers, past clients, soon-to-be clients, friends, mentors, and family who have supported and encouraged me on my professional real estate journey.

I love being a real estate agent. But what I love even more is the people I meet along the way — people just like YOU.

So right at the start of this month of gratitude, please hear my sincerest thanks and warmest regard. YOU make my every day an absolute joy!
” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”If lazy days and naps by the fire are part of your winter plans, you need to make sure your home is ready for the winter weather. Get your home tucked-in tight for the chilly days ahead with these winter prep tips.

Examine your pipes. Make sure exterior pipes are insulated and caulked. Insulation and caulk are way less expensive than burst pipes.
Clean out your gutters. Prevent snow and ice damage and keep critters from building nests by cleaning out gutters before the cold weather arrives.
Feel for drafts around doors and windows. Gaps will surely run up your heating bill. An easy DIY solution? New weatherstripping.
Service the furnace. Schedule a maintenance check now so your furnace is ready for the prime time of winter.
Be prepared for ice. Salt increases traction and accelerates melting so have it on hand to head off sidewalk accidents.

This winter, keep the cold outside where it belongs. Thinking of buying or selling early in 2022? Reach out and let’s put together a timeline now to keep everything simple and stress-free!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”You’re so amped up you can hardly stand it. Why? Today is the final walkthrough of your soon-to-be home sweet home.

Here’s what you can expect as you take one last look at your home before signing on the dotted line.

The walkthrough is your final opportunity to ensure your new home is in the same or better condition than it was the last time you toured it.
You and your agent will be there to confirm that all your agreed-upon repairs are complete or nearing completion.
Feel free to take notes and photos during the walkthrough to document your home’s condition. They may come in handy if you need to follow up with your seller about any last-minute details.
While in the home, test all light fixtures, appliances, garage doors, garbage disposals, and faucets. Run the HVAC to check for warm and cool air.
A thorough inspection of the home’s exterior is just as important as the interior, so be sure to walk around the outside.

In all the excitement, don’t rush through your walkthrough. Plan for it to take several hours and listen to your agent’s feedback and recommendations — doing so will help you avoid costly repairs and surprises after you unload the moving truck.

If you or someone you know is looking for a new place to call home, DM me today. I’d love to connect!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Wrestled long and hard and finally decided to sell? Here’s what you can expect when you partner with me to sell your home:

Text, phone, DM, email — however you want to connect, you’ll get ME every single time.
You’ll receive access to my library of seller resources that includes checklists, assessments, timelines, and FAQs. You’ll never have to wonder where you are in the process or what’s next.
You get one shot to make a killer impression. That’s why I use a professional real estate photographer to photograph your home. As a seller, you’ll get stunning images that will set your home apart from the rest.
My long tenure in *name of your town* means you can relax, enjoy the process, and feel confident about your decision to sell.
Long after closing, I’ll be here to field your questions or help you meet your next real estate goals.

Ready to partner and get your home sold? DM me today, and I’ll be in touch!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”After being in real estate for a bit now, I’ve learned a TON about the housing market, investment strategies, contingencies, and inflation — but I’ve learned even more about myself and working with others. Here are 3 of my top takeaways at this point in my career:

Most people are trustworthy.
Knowing when to speak and when to listen is a highly valuable skill that can be learned.
Kindness will take you farther than professional know-how.

What’s a lesson you’ve learned recently in your career?

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”If you’ve decided it’s time to sell, but you’re not sure what to do to get your home ready, this post is for you! Ask yourself these questions to gauge how close you are to sticking that for sale sign in the yard.

YES or NO?

Your walls, doors, and trim are clean and have been painted in the past several years. Bonus points if the walls are neutral shades of gray, white, tan, and beige.
Your home is free of clutter and knick-knacks. Translation? You can open any drawer or closet with no apprehension or grimace.
Your home’s major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roof, and foundation) are in good condition. And the minor issues that need attention are being addressed.
Your outdoor areas are clear, swept, and free of cobwebs, leaves, and nuisance insects. If not, you can knock this out in just a few hours one weekend!

If answered YES to most of these statements, you’re in a great place. DM me, and let’s chat about getting your home out there for buyers!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”To our nation’s past and present service members — there’s no way to adequately thank you for everything you sacrificed for our freedom, but on Veterans Day, we certainly should try. Thank you for your service — we honor you today and every day.” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”It’s not too late to get in on National Happy Hour Day. But you better hurry, it’s TODAY! To give your plans a boost (you’re welcome!), I’m sharing 5 of my favorite local watering holes.

*Share 5 local happy hour spots and details about any specials they’re running.*

Got a favorite I didn’t mention? Share below — maybe I’ll see you there!
” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”“Never be so busy as not think of others.” – Mother Teresa

Today is World Kindness Day. Will you join me today in sharing a smile, lending a hand, or meeting a need as opportunities arise? My heart is open and my eyes are looking! May we never be too busy to truly see the needs around us.
” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”While buying and selling a home isn’t EASY, I work hard to make it SIMPLE for my clients. Here’s how I break down the process for my five-star clients.

I provide step-by-step checklists tailored to their situation with clear, actionable steps that we work through together.
I help them gain clarity about what they need with diagnostic assessments and strategic printables.
I send weekly updates, frequently make sure we’re on the same page, and make myself accessible by phone, text, or in-person.

Favorite resources for buyers: My FAQ Packet and First-Time Homebuyers Checklist.
Favorite resources for sellers: My Seller-Under-Contract Timeline and Preparing for Your Listing Photoshoot Checklist.

Like to see one (or all!) of these? Drop me a message with your phone or email, and I’ll zip it over.

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”A buyer consultant may seem like a run-of-the-mill part of the buying process, but it’s critical to a buyer’s success and satisfaction.

Quick heads up — not all buyer consults are the same. Here’s what one looks like with me whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner:

Know exactly what you’re looking for? Bed/bath count, yard, garage, neighborhood, etc.? Awesome! You’re a step ahead! Not quite as sure? No worries. We’ll have a thorough chat about your needs and wants so we both leave with your list of must-haves that will guide your home search.
Next, we’ll run the numbers inside and settle on your price range. There’s nothing more burdensome to homeowners than overpaying for a home so rest assured, I won’t let that happen.
No need to become a neighborhood expert — that’s my job! After discussing your wants, we’ll discuss neighborhoods to zero in on where you’d like to call home.
Before we part ways, we’ll land on a timeline that works for you — you tell me when you want to be in your new home, and I’ll make it happen.

It’s called a buyer consult, but it’s really a dream session! If you’re ready for yours, send me a DM, and I’ll be in touch.

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”It’s holiday go-time, friends! Are you ready?

Because I want you to be ready for all your planned (and ahem, unplanned) guests this holiday season, here are a few tips to get your home ready:

Clean out your guest room closet to make room for your guests’ clothes, luggage, and gifts.
Purchase or refresh your guest towels, organize bathroom cabinets, and stock the bath with toothpaste, toilet paper, and hand soap.
Get your guest bedroom in good shape. Think linens, lighting, and extras like phone chargers.
Update your guest bedroom photos, and if applicable, include photos of your guests to make them feel at home.
Create a coffee station (in-room if possible) so your guests can grab a cup of coffee no matter how early they wake.
Purchase extra dishes, cups, mugs, and stools so you can easily gather around the table to share holiday goodies.

Welcoming guests into your home during the holidays is one of the joys of the season but only if you’re prepared! Take steps now so you can enjoy all the visits — planned and spontaneous!

%91OPTIONAL PHOTO CREDIT%93
Photo: @girlsatflourish
Stylist: @rosewoodandivey” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”You ARE sure it’s time to move, but you ARE NOT sure if you should sell or rent out your home. It’s a great question — good thing I’m here to answer (wink)!

It makes sense to sell if:

There’s a high demand for homes in your neighborhood.
Your home needs a lot of repairs and updates before it will be appealing to renters.
You live in an area that isn’t enticing to renters.
You don’t have the time, energy, or know-how to be a landlord.

On the other hand, renting might be the way to go if:

You owe more on your home than you can sell it for. By renting it out, you can cover the mortgage with rental income.
The housing market is weak in your area, and you’d prefer to sell after the market picks up a bit.
You’re willing to learn the ins and outs of being a landlord and excited about transforming your home into a financial asset.

Still have questions? Don’t go it alone. Talk with an agent who knows your area’s rental and housing market. Need an agent like that? DM me! I’d love to help.

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”As we put the finishing touches on 2021, you may be wondering what’s going on in your neighborhood and what’s right to expect in the next six months.

While I don’t have a crystal ball (wouldn’t THAT be amazing), I do have a little insider info about what’s happening in real estate in *NAME OF TOWN/COMMUNITY/NEIGHBORHOOD*.⁣ Take a look and let me know if you have questions about what it would look like for you to buy or sell in the next six months.

*List 2-3 market trends about home sales, interest rates, inventory, etc.*⁣

Send me a DM. I’d love to chat and answer any questions you have!

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Unpopular opinion #1: *Share an unpopular opinion like: Pineapple DOES NOT belong on pizza./Coffee tastes better black./Friends isn’t that funny and is the most overrated TV show ever./Fries with mayo are superior to fries with ketchup./Paper straws are the worst.*

Unpopular opinion #2: Now may NOT be the right time for you to buy or sell. (Gosh…am I even allowed to say that as a realtor?)

Yes! Here’s why:

I adore my job and love earning commissions, but no matter what, I’ll always do what’s best for my clients — even if that means telling them now is not the right time for them to buy or sell. My buyers and sellers will get expert guidance but they won’t get an ounce of pressure from me — ever.

If you partner with me to buy or sell a home, you can have full confidence that I’ll be honest with you from the start, no matter what. Like to connect? Send me a DM, and I’ll be in touch.

**Optional Photo Credit**
📸: @meaganlarsen” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Meet *name of team member* — my dear friend and *position title.*

*First name of team member:*
List 3-4 responsibilities he/she has in the office.
List 3-4 responsibilities he/she has in the office.
List 3-4 responsibilities he/she has in the office.

With contagious positive energy and superior organizational skills, *first name of team member* keeps ME smiling and everything in the office humming right along.

If you get the joy of working with *first name of team member* (and I hope you do!), you’ll see one of my favorite things about my job — the incredible people I get to work with! Thank you, *first name of team member*, for all you do!
” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”All year long, but especially on days like today, I’m grateful for wonderful clients like you!

Happy ThanksgivingI hope you have a wonderful day celebrating with the people you love.

%91OPTIONAL PHOTO CREDIT%93
Photo: @girlsatflourish
Stylist: @rosewoodandivey” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Pull out your holiday shopping list and put on your tennies, folks — it’s Small Business Saturday! And whatever you do, don’t miss these local small businesses I simply adore!

*Share 4-5 local small businesses and what you like about them (or any Small Business Saturday specials they are running).*

Got a favorite I didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments below — let’s spread the love and shop local this holiday season!” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Warm wishes to all my friends celebrating Hanukkah this holiday season. May the Festival of Lights bring you and those you love courage, hope, and peace!” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Got a “green” homeowner on your shopping list? Take advantage of Cyber Monday to score a housewarming gift they’ll love! To jump-start your search, here’s my personal list of gifts for new homeowners:

A personalized welcome mat.
A pizza baking stone (bonus if you give it with a pipin’ hot pizza!).
A wifi password display sign.
A wine caddy with a bottle of wine, of course!
A “new home” holiday ornament.
Gift cards to home improvement stores or local take-out spots.
A luxury hand soap and lotion set.
Personalized items with the happy homeowner’s new address. Think stationery, address labels, a wall plaque, a zip code pillow (LOVE!), or an engraved cutting board.
State or area-themed gifts — ideal for new-to-the-area friends.

Ever received an unforgettable housewarming gift? Have a go-to gift for homeowners that’s a slam dunk every time? Share below!

%91OPTIONAL PHOTO CREDIT%93
Photo: @girlsatflourish
Stylist: @rosewoodandivey” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]

[cch_instagram_caption caption=”Cleaning out and making room for guests and gifts this holiday season? High-five – me too! After all, December is all about giving and sharing with family, friends, and those in our area who could use a helping hand.

My guiding principle when cleaning out a closet? If I haven’t used it, worn it, or needed it in 12 months, it’s gotta go. If the item is in good, used condition, to a donation center it goes. But if it’s worn out, has holes, or is totally out of style, I’ll toss it.

Got a pile to donate like I do? Here are a few local places I trust to make the most of our donations:

*List 3-4 local charities or thrift stores that accept donations. Give a few details about what they accept and how to make a donation.*

Happy holidays, friends — and happy giving!” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][/cch_instagram_caption]