Almost every homeowner has some upgrades or small projects on their to-do list, from installing new gutters to new landscaping.  What they aren’t always thinking is if the next small project will add value to their home.  Not every home improvement increases the value of a property, whether they’re a necessity or not.  

• Roofing While a new roof looks great, it is considered a maintenance issue, so unless your roof needs replacing, or you have damaged shingles, this job rarely adds value.  On the other hand, depending on where you live, a metal roof can add some value to your home, lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums, and may save on the electric bill. 
• Landscaping Keeping your yard trim and weed-free doesn’t decrease or increase your home’s value, and some landscaping certainly helps if you’re trying to sell. Adding a small fish pond with waterfall, however, isn’t necessarily going to add to add value.   
• Electric/Plumbing In older homes, an upgrade here is something that’s necessary, and even if you used top-of-the-line products and the most expensive plumbers and electricians in the area, it won’t add value. 

• Swimming Pool Putting in a pool is simply a personal choice–you have it done because you want to enjoy some refreshment and relaxation on a hot day.  Rarely does an added pool or spa put money in your pocket if you sell. 
• High-End Upgrades In order for upgrades to add resale value, they must be consistent.  Don’t add imported tile to one bathroom, and then leave vinyl and Formica in the half bath.  
• HVAC A new A/C unit or heating system is another maintenance item, and though someone looking for a home may find some relief in knowing that there’s a brand-new unit attached to the home, they’re not going to pay more for it because it’s new. 
• Carpet If you’re thinking about installing new carpet to prep your house for the market, talk to your RealtorⓇ.  Going to the expense of new carpeting may be less desirable to house-hunters in your area.  If you want to make that money back, then consider another type of flooring for your house. 

These items don’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t have them done, but it does mean that you likely won’t get the extra money they cost back in case you sell your home.  What it will help is the home sale itself–someone on the search for a new house will be more likely to purchase a home that has a new roof or new flooring.  Nolo.com has some excellent information on what will add value to your home, as well as some other home improvement tips.  When in doubt, do some research, and give your RealtorⓇ a call, as they know exactly what you need to do to get the most out of your house. 

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.

The walls of your home are begging for a new paint job, or you simply want to change your decor colors, but money is not flowing freely enough to hire a painter.  Painting is one DIY project that is cost-effective and easy enough to make it look as if you hired a crew to do the work.  Go over these tips before you get started: 

• Flat or matte paint is great for hiding flaws, and best used in low-traffic rooms, as it is not as easy to clean as glossy paint.  Use latex paint for high-traffic walls, and oil paint for wood trim.  Leave windows open when painting with oil paint because the odor is quite strong, and it takes longer to dry. 
• When picking colors, do not be afraid to go bold, unless you plan to sell soon, then neutrals are your best choice. 
• Purchase paint samples and apply each color in a 2’x2’ area on the wall you are planning to paint. Once it is dry, you will get a better feel for the color in the different lights, and whether you can live with it or not. 

• The ceiling cannot be forgotten in your new design!  Change the feel of the room’s height by going a shade darker (for a lower ceiling feel) or go a shade lighter or use a lighter color to give the illusion of a higher ceiling. 
• Use this handy paint calculator to determine how much paint you will need.  Other supplies necessary for a professional look are painter’s tape, drop cloths, putty, a putty knife, caulking, and any tools you may need for removing hardware from any doors or walls. 
• Clean your walls and sand if necessary, then use a vacuum to make sure all the dust is gone. 
• Covering a dark color, stains on the walls, old paneling, or new sheetrock may require a coat of primer prior to painting. Tint the primer with a little of your new wall color before applying. 
• Before you start on the walls, do the little stuff first:  paint in corners and close to the ceiling with a good brush, working your way down to catch drips. 

• Paint the walls in 3’-4’ sections in an overlapping W-pattern, applying paint until you need to reload the roller. When you are near the ceiling and corners, get as close as possible using what is left on the roller where you previously already cut in. This gives a smooth appearance to the finish. 
• Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours and avoid hanging anything on the walls for a few days. Hopefully, you should not have to do any cleaning until the paint has cured, usually two weeks to thirty days. 

Giving your home a facelift with paint is easy and rewarding if done correctly. Feeling adventurous? Try painting a pattern on your wall.  It may take more time, but the dramatic effect it makes in the room makes the wall a focal point, and one you can take pride in since you created it! 

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.

There are several measures everyone can take to protect their credit.

• Sign up for the free credit monitoring Equifax offers, but don’t let that make you unaware of your credit reports. Check them as often as possible, and dispute errors.
• Setting up a fraud alert with Equifax, as well as TransUnion and Experian, is another important step.
• If you feel compelled, freeze credit reports at all three agencies. A fee is involved, and varies by state. Find more information here: http://consumersunion.org/research/consumers-unions-guide-to-security-freeze-protection-2/
• Married couples need to make sure both spouses have taken steps to protect their information.
• If you have family members that haven’t checked their reports, especially the elderly, offer to help them.

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.

Mold is a common household issue that can cause significant health problems and structural damage if left unchecked. As a homeowner, understanding how to prevent, identify, and remediate mold is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy living environment. Here are some essential tips and information to help you tackle mold in your home.

Getting your home ready to sell requires thorough cleaning and decluttering, but once your belongings are packed and ready to move for the new owners to move in, you may see things that were hidden by furniture and other items. While most contracts state that the home should be “broom clean” at the time of closing, some extra cleaning will be necessary.

• Once the walls of every room are bare, use a vacuum, flat duster, or sweep mop to go over all of the walls, permanent fixtures, and ceilings. Wipe the walls and ceilings down with mild cleaner and water, and a flat mop is a great tool to make this work go quickly and efficiently.
• Vacuum all drawers and cabinet interiors, then wipe down with a mild cleaner and allow to dry before closing.
• Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be turned off, dusted, and wiped down thoroughly.
• Clean and disinfect bathrooms and kitchens from top to bottom.
• Move appliances to clean beneath and behind them, and ensure interior surfaces are completely clean.
• Have your agent reach out to the buyer’s representative to ask the buyer if they would like for you to leave any extra paint, tile or flooring, vinyl siding, etc., especially if they are not planning on a remodel. If so, stack them neatly in the garage or storage area.
• All outdoor areas should be free of debris, do not leave garbage behind, and mow the lawn shortly before closing.
• The best time to vacuum carpets and clean hard flooring is after everything is out of the home.

At best, the house should be sparkling clean upon the final walk-through. Sometimes, a dirty home can hold up closing, and that is never a good thing. If you simply do not have time to do a thorough cleaning before moving out, hire a professional team to do the dirty work for you.

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.

As the summer sun blazes down, your pool becomes the ultimate backyard oasis, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. However, to keep your pool in top condition throughout the season, regular maintenance is crucial. Proper pool care ensures that the water stays clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your pool during the summer months.

New Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association data shows record median home price for second time this year.

State of the Market

• The median home price for June was recorded at $395,000, up from $385,000 in May. This is the highest monthly median home price on record in the Orlando area. This is the second time in 2024 the record has been broken.
• Inventory for June was recorded at 10,796, up 5.0% from May when inventory was recorded at 10,282. This is the sixth month in a row inventory has risen. The last time inventory was this high was November 2015.
• Overall sales fell 10.6% from May to June. There were 2,601 sales in June, down from 2,909 sales in May. This breaks a four-month streak of rising sales.
• June’s interest rate was recorded at 6.7%, up from 6.6% in May.
• Pending sales fell by 8.3%, with 4,298 in May and 3,940 in June.
• New listings fell 8.4% from May to June, with 4,143 new homes on the market in June, compared to 4,521 in May.
• Homes spent an average of 54 days on the market (DOM) in June – the same as in May and April.
• “Demand in the Orlando market is holding strong this summer, as evidenced by yet another record-breaking median home price in June,” said Rose Kemp, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association President. “The good news for buyers is that we are continuing to see inventory rise. More inventory gives buyers more options and more power to negotiate with the seller in the home-buying process.”

Market Snapshot

• Interest rates rose from 6.6% in May to 6.7% in June.
• Pending sales fell 8.3%, with 4,298 in May and 3,940 in June.
• 25 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.0% of all home sales in June. That represents a 47.1% increase from May when 17 distressed homes sold.

Inventory

• Orlando area inventory increased 5.0% from May to June. Inventory in May was 10,282, and inventory in June was 10,796.
• The supply of homes rose to 4.15 months in June, up 17.4% from 3.53 months in May. A balanced market is six months of supply.
• The number of new listings decreased from May to June by 8.4% – from 4,521 homes to 4,143 homes.

You can find ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for May 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.

Independence Day, better known in the US as the Fourth of July, will soon be in full swing with barbecues, backyard games, and fireworks. It became an official holiday in 1870, when Congress approved several national holidays. Here are some other little-known facts about our favorite Summertime holiday: 

America’s Independence 

• July 2 is the actual date that Congress voted to cut ties with England, but July 4 became the official date when all changes to the wording of the Declaration of Independence was finalized and accepted by all members. 

• Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on a laptop.  A laptop desk, that is.  It is still on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. 
• The first Independence Day celebration was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 8, 1776 after the first public reading of the Declaration, with bands and ringing of bells. 
• To protect the lives of the signers of the Declaration, their names were withheld from public knowledge until independence from England was certain.  Otherwise, the men would’ve been hanged for treason! 
• John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration who later became President, died hours apart on July 4, 1826. 

Holiday Celebrations 

• In the years after 1776, July 4th was celebrated with booming cannons and artillery fire.  Once the use of these became impossible because of their age and condition, fireworks took their place. 
• The National Retail Federation tells us that in 2017, Americans spent an estimated $850 million on fireworks alone! 
• Legend has it that the first hot-dog-eating contest was held among friends at Nathan’s at Coney Island on July 4, 1916 to settle a dispute.  The contest is now a national affair and is broadcast live on ESPN! 

• Red, white and blue are out modern-day colors of choice for decorations, but George Washington had his troops adorn themselves with greenery in their hats to celebrate the independence anniversary, reports James Heintze in his book, The Fourth of July Encyclopedia. 
• Bristol, Rhode Island boasts the longest continuous Independence Day celebration, with the first observance in 1785.  The modern-day events include a parade, an orange crate derby, and a drum and bugle corps competition. 

Even if you’re traveling abroad, you’ll find Fourth of July decorations and fireworks available world-wide, thanks to Americans who settled in foreign countries in years past, and our many soldiers who are stationed at bases in other countries, according to International Business Insider.  It’s a celebration that is heard around the world! 

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.

As a pet owner, your furry friends bring immense joy and companionship to your home. However, they also come with their own set of challenges when it comes to maintaining a clean and well-functioning household. From shedding hair to pet odors and potential damage to furniture, keeping your home in top shape with pets can seem daunting. Luckily, with some strategic planning and regular upkeep, you can create a pet-friendly environment that is both welcoming and well-maintained. Here are some essential home maintenance tips and tricks for pet owners.

1. Manage Pet Hair and Shedding

Regular Grooming: Brush your pets regularly to reduce the amount of loose hair in your home. This not only keeps your pet’s coat healthy but also minimizes shedding.

2. Control Pet Odors

Frequent Cleaning: Clean pet bedding, toys, and living areas regularly. Washing these items helps eliminate odors and keep your home smelling fresh.

3. Protect Your Floors and Furniture

Area Rugs and Mats: Place area rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and near entrances to catch dirt and debris brought in by your pets. Choose washable rugs for easy cleaning. Consider investing in paw scrubbers to keep at the entry and exits of your home!

4. Maintain a Clean Yard

Regular Cleanup: Regularly clean up pet waste from your yard to prevent unpleasant odors and maintain a healthy environment for your pets. It should be picked up right away (or at least daily) to avoid attracting unwanted insects that love to feast on pet waste!

5. Organize Pet Supplies

Designated Storage: Keep your pet’s supplies organized in a designated area. Use bins or shelves to store food, toys, grooming tools, and medications. Remember to keep the area dry as to not grow mold on your pet food and regularly clean up food that falls onto the ground!

6. Regular Home Maintenance

HVAC Filters: Change your HVAC filters regularly to ensure they effectively trap pet hair and dander. This helps maintain good indoor air quality. Although recommended to change them every 3 months, if you have furry pets, it’s often better to change them every 2 months!

Maintaining a clean and well-functioning home with pets is entirely possible with a bit of extra care and organization. By managing pet hair and odors, protecting your floors and furniture, keeping your yard clean, organizing pet supplies, and performing regular home maintenance, you can enjoy a harmonious living environment with your furry companions. Start implementing these tips today and create a home that’s both pet-friendly and pristine. Your efforts will not only enhance your living space but also ensure a happy and healthy life for your pets.

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

Looking to add a touch of style and personality to your home? An accent wall is a perfect way to transform any room, adding depth, color, and a focal point that captures attention. Whether you’re an avid DIYer or considering hiring a professional, creating an accent wall can dramatically enhance your living space. Let’s explore the benefits of accent walls and what to consider when deciding to do it yourself or hire a professional.

Benefits of Creating an Accent Wall

1. Adds Visual Interest

An accent wall can break up the monotony of a room and introduce a bold statement. It draws the eye and creates a focal point, making the space more engaging and dynamic.

2. Defines Spaces

In open-plan homes, an accent wall can help define different areas without the need for partitions. It can distinguish the dining area from the living room or create a cozy nook in a large bedroom.

3. Showcases Personal Style

Accent walls are a fantastic way to express your personal style. Whether you choose a vibrant paint color, a textured wallpaper, or a unique material like wood or stone, your choice can reflect your taste and personality.

4. Cost-Effective Transformation

Compared to a full-room makeover, an accent wall is a relatively low-cost project that can have a high impact. It allows you to experiment with bold colors or materials without committing to an entire room.

DIY Accent Wall: Pros and Cons

Pros

Hiring a Professional: Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Choose Your Wall and Design

Select the wall you want to accentuate and decide on the design. Consider factors like the room’s lighting, existing color scheme, and overall style.

2. Gather Materials and Tools

Depending on your chosen design, you may need paint, wallpaper, stencils, wood panels, or other materials. Gather all necessary tools, such as brushes, rollers, levels, and measuring tape.

3. Prepare the Wall

Clean the wall thoroughly and repair any holes or cracks. If you’re painting, apply a primer to ensure even coverage and adhesion.

4. Apply Your Design

Painting: Use painter’s tape to outline the area and apply paint with a roller or brush. For patterns, use stencils or create designs with tape.

5. Finishing Touches

Once the design is complete, remove any tape, clean up any drips or mistakes, and allow the wall to dry completely.

Elevate Your Home with an Accent Wall

Creating an accent wall is a stylish and effective way to add personality and value to your home. Whether you choose to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional, understanding the benefits and considerations will help you make the best decision for your space. A DIY approach offers cost savings and creative freedom, while a professional touch ensures expertise and efficiency. Start planning your accent wall today and transform your living space into a more vibrant and personalized environment. Take action now and enjoy the beauty and charm an accent wall can bring to your home.

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