Amy's Blog

New Listing in Shenandoah Subdivision of Troy Ohio

2008-07-09T10:32:14Z

Why sit on the fence?

2008-03-09T10:52:31Z

Before you believe the media, perhaps you should examine the housing market. If you're sitting on the fence waiting for the market to "turn around" before you buy--you could be missing out on an opportunity. Make no mistake, the opportunity will be assumed by someone else!

There are still plenty of affordable and safe mortgage products available, both conforming and federally insured, especially since the President signed the new economic stimulus package into law. The loan limit increases included in the package will help an additional 138,000 Americans purchase a home according to research by the National Association of Realtors. The FHA loan limit in the Dayton is increasing from $206,150 to $271,250 as a result of the stimulus package. Further, the increased loan limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will help many homeowners refinance and avoid foreclosure as well as convert many fence-sitters into active buyers.

The outcome? Reduced housing inventory and increasing home prices. It's not too late to get into the market and " buy low". A rise in pricing is right around the corner, don't miss YOUR opportunity.

SOLD! 2788 Chatham Drive Troy, Ohio 45373

2007-12-04T19:20:10Z

SOLD in 57 days! Beautiful home in Pamela Estates custom-built by UpNorth Construction. 4 BR 2.5BA, full basement, 1/2 acre lot, and open floor plan with over 2500 sq. ft.!

Contact Amy today at (937)216-7846 or amy.watt@realliving.com

Staging Your Home During the Holidays

2007-12-03T13:11:04Z

Staging a home for a sale is most effective when the home is clean, free of clutter, and appeals to potential buyers' senses using color, light, and natural scents. As long as these basic rules are followed, holiday décor can enhance a home's staging. The key to successful holiday staging is keeping it subtle. The décor should be inviting, but not too personalized.

It is important to make a good first impression, so don't overlook the front door. A small wreath made from natural materials such as holly, evergreens, or twigs, should have a few touches of festive color and should offset the house's paint colors. Avoid large candy canes, Santa and Mrs. Clauses, or other distracting statues.

Keep outdoor lights to a minimum. Use white or clear lights on small trees and bushes. To further set the stage for the holidays, wrap lit garland around a front lamp post.

Have a tree, but keep it small to medium-sized. You don't want the tree to take up too much square footage. Following suit with the rest of the Holiday décor, keep the decorations on the tree simple. A few sets of coordinating ornaments and white or clear lights should achieve a subtle, elegant look. Finally, the only thing under the tree should be its skirt. Gifts appear cluttered, invite theft, and "over-personalize" the home.

Other indoor decorations should be kept to a minimum. A few holiday candles, a bowl of fruit or pine cones and garland on the mantle can create a festive tone that isn't distracting. Pay attention to color, the decorations should not clash with the interior.

Don't forget to appeal to the senses. Natural plant scents such as pine are appealing, festive, and create a homey feeling. Create texture with fabric by layering cloths on a table or placing a throw blanket over a sofa. Play holiday or classical music without lyrics and serve treats such as cider, nuts, and spiced bread.