Credit Karma conducted a recent survey and discovered that 33% of those asked are expecting a refund of $1,001 or more this year, and 16% responded that they expect $2,501 or more. Now, we cannot get into the financial sense of tax refunds, but if you are one of those expecting a refund and planning to use it for some home-work, here are a few suggestions on how best to spend that money! 

$1,000 or Less 

• Replacing the front door is an expensive job, but it can create a whole new look for the front exterior of your home. 
• Improve an existing front walkway or add one.  Whether the home is going on the market soon or not, a new walkway will improve the curb appeal.  
• Make the kitchen look like it has undergone an expensive update: paint the cabinets, replace the hardware, and add a tile backsplash. 
• Install new light fixtures in the home. Shop smart, and every room in the house can get stylish new flush-mount fixtures. 
• DIY a minor bathroom renovation:  replace the toilet, faucets, and lights, and give the tub/shower a makeover with a refinishing kit. 
• Upgrade one appliance kitchen appliance.  

$1,000-$2,000 

• Making repairs that have been put off because of the expense should be done before any improvements are made. Protecting your investment is more important than new bathroom tile. 
• Bump your front lawn landscaping up a notch and hire a landscape designer to create a custom design for your yard.  
• Have those “popcorn” ceilings removed by a pro, and add new crown molding.  
• Tankless water heaters, whether whole-house or single-point, are worth the investment, as there will be an immediate difference in power usage. 
• Take on a DIY job and save money: paint the home’s exterior, install new flooring, add wainscotting, or install kitchen countertops. 

A tax refund can feel like a small lottery win, and using it for a visible home improvement job is very satisfying. However, using those funds to pay down any accumulated debt or as an investment will pay back in the long run. Check out these ideas from Investopedia, and take off some of that financial load! 

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Spring is here and people are on the move! Buyers and sellers are waking up from their winter blues ready for new. A new change of scenery, a new place, a new start. In today’s competitive market, finding your dream home is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in making an offer that stands out, ensuring you cross the finish line as the new homeowner. Here are some top tips to help you craft the strongest offer possible, putting you a step closer to turning that dream home into your own.

1. Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage

Before you start your home search, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This step is crucial as it shows sellers that you are a serious and capable buyer. A pre-approval letter alongside your offer can significantly increase its attractiveness, as it reduces the risk for the seller.

2. Understand the Seller’s Needs

Knowing what the seller wants can be as important as the offer itself. Some sellers prefer a quick closing, while others may need a bit more time to move out. Tailor your offer to accommodate these needs. A flexible closing date can sometimes be just as appealing as a higher offer.

3. Offer a Competitive Price

While it’s important to stick within your budget, make sure your offer is competitive, especially in a seller’s market. Your real estate agent can provide insights into the home’s value and suggest an offer price that is both attractive to the seller and fair to you. Sometimes, offering just a bit over the asking price can make your offer stand out.

4. Minimize Contingencies

Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to go through, such as home inspections and mortgage approvals. While they’re designed to protect the buyer, too many contingencies can make your offer less attractive. Work with your agent to minimize unnecessary contingencies, but be careful not to waive essential ones that could protect you.

5. Increase Your Earnest Money Deposit

An earnest money deposit is a sign of good faith and indicates your serious intent to buy the home. By increasing the amount beyond what’s typical in your market, you can show the seller you’re committed. This act can make your offer more appealing without increasing your overall offer price.

6. Personalize Your Offer

A personal touch can sometimes make all the difference. Consider writing a letter to the seller, expressing why you fell in love with the home and how you envision your future there. This emotional appeal can resonate with the seller, especially if they have a strong sentimental attachment to the home.

7. Work with a Reputable Real Estate Agent

A skilled agent is invaluable in the home-buying process. They can provide market insights, negotiation expertise, and guidance on crafting a strong offer. Choose an agent with a good track record and one who understands your needs and the local market.

8. Be Ready to Move Quickly

In a hot market, time is of the essence. Be ready to view homes and make decisions quickly. The ability to submit a prompt and well-considered offer can be a significant advantage.

Making a strong offer on a home requires a blend of strategy, flexibility, and sometimes, a personal touch. By following these tips and working closely with your real estate agent, you can increase your chances of success in today’s competitive market. Remember, every seller is different, so understanding their unique needs and preferences can truly set your offer apart. Good luck, and happy house hunting!

This time of year folks begin to get outdoors to do more around their homes because it is nice and warm outside.   It’s also a good time to do a bit of work outside the house and make your outdoor space more inviting and fun for family and friends.   Below is a list of ways in which you can accomplish this.

1. If you already have landscape lighting, why not purchase a few fun colored lights to use in them for different holidays.  This will defiantly make your outdoor space a lot more fun.
2. If you are getting tired of mowing your grass then you may want to replace your grass with a garden. You might want to add a garden of flowers or a garden of vegetables or even put in a koi pond.  Any of these ideas will help to keep you from spending your summer evenings mowing the grass all the time, therefore making your outdoor space more fun.
3. If your patio furniture is old and outdated, now is the time to go out to purchase some that allows you to show your style more effectively. Outdoor furniture always makes outdoor spaces more inviting and fun.
4. Adding a new doorbell to the outside of your home may seem like a small thing, however if you find a nice one that lights up the front door area it can do wonders towards making your home seem more inviting at night.
5. If you don’t already have a swimming pool, summertime is a great time to add one. Not much can make your outdoor space more fun than a swimming pool for all to enjoy.
6. If you do add a swimming pool why not go out and make it really fun and cool by adding an outdoor shower to the mix. This type of thing is pretty rare unless your home is at the beach, therefore your outdoor shower may quickly become the talk of the neighborhood.

There are so many ways in which to make your outdoor space more inviting and fun; these are just a few of them that you may want to try.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

New Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association data shows spike in listings kicking off the new year

State of the Market

• Overall sales rose 26.5% from January to February. There were 2,174 sales in February, up from 1,719 sales in January. This comes after eight months of falling sales.
• The median home price for February was recorded at $377,000, up from $360,000 in January. This comes after three months of falling median home price.
• Pending sales increased by 17.8%, with 3,303 in January and 3,891 in February.
• New listings rose 7.8% from January to February, with 3,799 new homes on the market in February, compared to 3,524 in January.
• Inventory for February was recorded at 8,589, up 4.5% from January when inventory was recorded at 8,217.
• February’s interest rate was recorded at 6.6%, up slightly from 6.5% in January.
• Homes spent an average of 57 days on the market (DOM) in February – the same as in January.
• “Super Bowl weekend is considered the unofficial kick-off to the spring homebuying season, and we definitely saw an uptick in the market this month,” said Rose Kemp, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association President. “We had a lot of pending sales in January that finalized in February, causing home sales to jump as we approach this busy time for the market. Inventory and pending sales both increased from January to February, meaning we can expect to see another active sales month in March now that buyers have more options.”

Market Snapshot

• Interest rates rose from 6.5% in January to 6.6% in February.
• Pending sales rose 17.8%, with 3,303 in January and 3,891 in February.
• 25 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.1% of all home sales in February. That represents a 13.6% increase from January when 22 distressed homes sold.

Inventory

• Orlando area inventory increased 4.5% from January to February. Inventory in January was 8,217, and inventory in February was 8,589.
• The supply of homes fell to 3.95 months in February, down 17.3% from 4.78 months in January. A balanced market is six months of supply.
• The number of new listings increased from January to February by 7.8% – from 3,524 homes to 3,799 homes.

ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for February can be found here.

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association and the Stellar Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor StellarMLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the association or by StellarMLS does not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Due to late closings, an adjustment is necessary to record those closings posted after our reporting date.

ORRA REALTOR® sales represent sales involving Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association members, who are primarily – but not exclusively – located in Orange and Seminole counties. Note that statistics released each month may be revised in the future as new data is received.

Orlando MSA numbers reflect sales of homes located in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties by members of any REALTOR® association, not just members of ORRA.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Spring cleaning has likely already become underway in your household.  What you may not have given much thought however is spring maintenance for your home.   There are several things that folks generally check around their homes before the winter months but there are also a few things you need to check in the early spring months.  Below is a spring maintenance check list for your home.

1. Springtime means it is time to start mowing your lawn again.  If your lawn mower has been outside all winter due to lack of storage space you may need to do a bit of maintenance on it before you get it going.  Sharpening the blade is always a good idea before a new season so that you get a nice clean cut on the grass.  It’s also a good idea to check the oil on your lawn mower before beginning to use it for the warm season.

1. Spring is a great time to check your house for worn paint areas such as your shutters.  If you find worn or chipped paint on your house what better time to fix that than in the typically perfect weather of spring.

1. Be sure to check your crawl space vents for any debris that may have accumulated there over the winter months.  Also you want to keep your eye out for any animals such as snakes or rodents that may have made their home in your crawl space over the last few months.  Get rid of anything that doesn’t belong and repair anything that may be broken such as the vent covers.

1. Get your flower beds and any garden areas ready for spring by cleaning out any debris that may have accumulated and trimming back any old growth.  It is also a good time to add mulch to your flower beds and fertilizer to your garden.

The above list of spring maintenance ideas is just a start in the right direction.  There is certainly much more that you need to do in and around your house before the summer time approaches.  Once you get started with these, you will likely find and think of more things that need to be done.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction

Let’s face it, many times when folks visit the islands they tend to not want to come home from such places.  This is the case typically because the beach is a very relaxing place to be with all the warm air, salt water and sunshine.   What if you could decorate your home to have an island feel?  There are ways to go about turning your home into a tropical oasis.  A few of those ideas are listed below for you.

1. A good way to get started making your home feel like an island paradise  is by beginning to think outside of the box.  Do not be afraid of using bold colors in rooms in which you want to transform.  You can choose bold teal colors that mimic the look of the ocean for your family room then perhaps you can use some wallpaper in your kids’ bathroom that has sea creatures on it.  Don’t worry, as long as you keep it classy, not tacky, you will be able to get away with doing all sorts of wild colors and designs to achieve your beach house feel.
2. Another way to decorate your home to have an island feel is to add some accessories throughout the house that help you achieve the look. Throw pillows with sand dollars and seahorses on them are a great start.  You can even use seashells you have gathered on your trips to the ocean to decorate with.  Putting some seashells in glass vases with a bit of sand in them is a great way to achieve beach décor.
3. One way to give your home an island feel is to use a lot of candles that are scented with tropical scents.  Lighting these daily will help you to feel like you are on vacation when you are sitting in your own home.
4. Lots of ceiling fans throughout your home is another way to create an island oasis inside. You can also use ceiling fans outside on your porch area to take the feel outside.
5. Wicker and rattan is your friend if you want your home to feel like an island. Use it liberally.
6. Using a lot of tropical plants to decorate the inside of your home is another good way to get the island feel you are searching for.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

De-cluttering any room in your house can sometimes feel like a huge job to take on but for some reason de-cluttering the bathroom can seem to take on a whole life of its own.    Truth is there are many items in our bathrooms that we no longer use.   Take an hour or so to go through your bathroom with this list of tips for de-cluttering.

1. The first tip to de-cluttering your bathroom   is to do what was just mentioned, take the time to go through your entire bathroom looking for items you no longer use.  If you haven’t used an item in the past week you should consider either getting rid of the item or at least finding a spot for it that will help to cut down on clutter in the bathroom.
2. Another tip for de-cluttering your bathroom is to throw out old toothbrushes. Some folks may not know this but you are supposed to change out your toothbrush once every three months to keep it from forming bacteria.   If you want to keep your old toothbrushes you could do so and perhaps use them as cleaning tools in other areas of the house.  You might find that they are good for such things as cleaning in between tiles and other small areas that you can’t otherwise reach.
3. Take a look in your bathroom medicine cabinet when de-cluttering your bathroom. If you find medications that have expired, go ahead and toss them in the garbage right away.
4. Another tip for de-cluttering your bathroom is to toss out any old makeup or nail polish you may have stored away in a drawer.  Old makeup and nail polish will not work like it is suppose to so there is no use to keep it around.
5. If you have a lot of half empty shampoo and/ or conditioner bottles laying around your bathroom you can use what is left in them to refill your soft soap container. Throw out all the old bottles once you have used their contents to help de-clutter your bathroom in a great way.
6. If you have a lot of hotel soaps, shampoos etc, why not toss them into your gym bag and use them there to help make your bathroom less cluttered.

De-cluttering your bathroom is quite simple really; you just have to take the time to do it.  Once you do, I am sure you will like the clean fresh feeling you have as a result.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Most home sellers work full time, and getting the house prepped to be put on the market can be a second full-time job, depending on their to-do list.  As most every seller knows, curb appeal is vital for a great first impression, and carving extra time is a luxury, but with these tips and ideas, it can go from zero to fabulous in a weekend! 

• Cleaning Pressure wash the exterior siding, fencing, the porch floor, concrete walkway and driveway, and as dreadful as it may be, clean out gutters. 
• Painting These exterior items may need paint:  front door, shutters, window sills, exterior trim, garage doors, porch floor and railings, mailbox and address numbers. 
• Replace Lighting fixtures that are dated or weathered should be replaced, and put up new address numbers, or mailbox if paint doesn’t improve their appearance, and get a new welcome mat. 
• Inspect Go around the house and look closely at exterior trim, shutters, and window sills.  Examine concrete for damage, and make sure walkway pavers are stable and in perfect condition.  Make certain that all landscape lighting or irrigation systems are in working order. 
• Lawn Care Not only should the lawn be mowed but using an edge trimmer to neaten up the walkways, driveway and planting beds makes a big difference.  Seed any dead areas of the lawn.   
• Landscaping Weed flower beds, add seasonal easy-care plantings (annuals are best for season-long blooms!) and new mulch.  If a tree needs more than minor pruning, call a tree specialist. 
• Decorative Remove personal yard flags, add some potted plants on the porch, highlight a shady spot with a simple outdoor bench and a few plants, and clean up outdoor furniture cushions or replace them. 

Much like the interior of the home, the outside should be clean, in working order, and clutter-free.  Before you get outside, go online and search recently sold homes in your market for some curb appeal inspiration, then put in a weekend’s time, and get that house sold!  

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

Welcome back, fellow homeowners! Today, we’re going to dive into the world of annual home maintenance projects. I know, I know, it’s not the most glamorous topic, but trust me when I say it’s worth your attention. These projects are like little knights in shining armor, protecting your castle from potential disasters and saving you from costly repairs down the road. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to tackle these essential tasks!

1. Gutters Galore:

Ah, gutters – the unsung heroes of our homes. They work tirelessly to divert rainwater away from our roofs and foundations, preventing water damage and pesky leaks. Over time, though, they can become clogged with leaves, debris, and even the occasional rogue tennis ball (don’t ask). That’s why it’s crucial to clean them out at least once a year. Grab a ladder, a pair of gloves, and get ready to channel your inner adventurer as you journey to the rooftop to clear away any obstructions. Your gutters will thank you!

2. Fantastic Filters:

Air filters, your trusty companions in the battle against allergens and dust bunnies. Just like gutters, these unsung heroes need some love too. Depending on your HVAC system, filters should be replaced every three to six months, ensuring optimal air quality and efficiency. Think of it as giving your home a refreshing breath of fresh air. Plus, it’s a simple task that typically requires only a quick swap – no advanced DIY skills required!

3. Marvelous Mulching:

Ah, the magic of mulch. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, mulching offers a myriad of benefits for your plants and flower beds. A fresh layer of mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. To keep those plants happy and thriving, make it a yearly ritual to refresh your mulch in the spring. Your green-thumb neighbors will be secretly jealous of your flourishing garden!

4. Spectacular Smoke Detectors:

Smoke detectors are the unsung heroes that protect us from potential disasters. But did you know they have a lifespan of about ten years? Yes, they do age, just like fine wine (well, not exactly). So, once a year, it’s essential to test your detectors and replace the batteries if needed. Remember, safety first!

5. Dazzling Deck Maintenance:

Decks are the perfect spot for summer gatherings, barbecues, and lazy afternoons. To keep them looking their best, however, they require a little TLC. Each year, give your deck a thorough cleaning and inspection. Replace any loose boards and apply a fresh coat of sealant to keep it protected from the elements. Your deck will thank you by hosting memorable moments for years to come!

Congratulations, brave homeowners! You’ve made it through our annual home maintenance project list. Maintaining your castle may not be the most exciting task, but it’s undoubtedly a wise investment of your time. By staying on top of these projects, you’ll not only prevent potential disasters but also save yourself from costly repairs in the long run. So, gather your tools, unleash your inner warrior, and let’s keep those homes in tip-top shape!

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

By: Homekeepr