JULY 1, 2023
Home Tips | July Home Maintenance Checklist
Prepare your home for the summer months ahead by checking off the tasks below!
1. Change HVAC filters
2. Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
3. Pressure wash your driveway
4. Clean out your garbage cans
5. Wash pet beds and toys
6. Clean out your closet
7. Replace front and back outdoor doormats
8. Wipe down exterior lights
9. Add shade to your yard with a pergola or umbrella
10. Clean your garbage disposal
Summer is a great time to tackle home improvement projects! Do you have any changes you'd like to make to your home this season? Share below!
JULY 2, 2023
Local | Local Fireworks Schedule
Here are 3 of the most spectacular firework shows in **Insert City** to celebrate the good ol' USA this Independence Day!
JULY 3, 2023
Informative | Why It's Fun To Be A Homeowner On 4th of July
Here are 5 perks of being a homeowner on The 4th Of July:
1. You can host a 4th Of July BBQ or pool party and invite all of your family and friends.
2. You can set off a firework display in your backyard or driveway.
3. You can decorate your home with patriotic-themed decorations such as flags, banners, and lights, showing off your pride for our country.
4. You can use your outdoor space to relax, grill some hotdogs and hamburgers, and enjoy the holiday festivities!
5. You can build a sense of community by getting to know your neighbors and participating in local 4th Of July events or parades.
Looking to start the buying process and experience all the benefits of homeownership? I’d love to connect — send me a DM, and let’s chat!
JULY 4, 2023
Seasonal | Happy Fourth Of July
Happy Fourth of July! Wishing you and your family a safe and wonderful 4th!
JULY 5, 2023
Informative | What’s Your Biggest Dealbreaker In A Home?
Creating a home-buying wishlist helps you to determine what you need in a home and what features are most and least important to you.
The best way to make a home-buying wishlist is to separate your list into 2 categories: deal-makers and deal-breakers.
What’s your biggest deal-breaker in a home? Choose one from the graphic above or comment your own below!
JULY 6, 2023
Informative | How To Determine If You Should Sell Or Rent Your Home
You should consider renting out your home if:
- Your home is located in a desirable area
- You are ready to take on the responsibilities of becoming a landlord
- Your home doesn't require much maintenance
- Your property can generate positive cash flow
- Your home is in close proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, shopping, restaurants, and other amenities
You should consider selling your home if:
- You have no interest in being a landlord
- You want access to cash that you can use for other investments or expenses
- You aren't able to charge enough rent to cover your mortgage
- You aren't able to qualify for two homes
- You need cash for a down payment on your new home
While renting out a property can provide additional income and be a long-term investment, selling your home can provide immediate cash and simplify your life. It's important to carefully consider your options and consult with a real estate professional before making a decision!
JULY 7, 2023
Informative | House Hunting Etiquette: The Dos and Don’ts For Buyers
JULY 8, 2023
Home Tips | 6 Tips To A Bug Free Backyard
JULY 9, 2023
Informative | 5 Reasons Why Buying A Home Is Better Than Renting
Here are a few house hunting do's and don'ts for home buyers!
Do:
1. Be respectful of the seller's property
2. Arrive on time
3. Keep an open mind
4. Ask questions
5. Dress appropriately
6. Take off your shoes
Don't:
1. Overstay your welcome
2. Show up without a showing scheduled
3. Bring pets or children
4. Discuss negotiations in the home
5. Bring food or drink
6. Cancel last minute
Following these dos and don'ts will help you to navigate the home-buying process both respectfully and professionally!
If you plan on spending a lot of time in your backyard this summer, it's important to prepare ahead of time to avoid being bothered by mosquitos, bees, ticks, or other creepy crawlies!
Here are six tips to help you create a bug-free backyard:
1. Remove any standing water in your yard, as this can attract mosquitos and other bugs.
2. Keep your grass trimmed short and your yard free of debris, which can provide shelter for bugs.
3. Use citronella candles or torches to repel mosquitos.
4. Plant bug-repelling herbs such as lavender, basil, or lemongrass.
5. Use bug spray or wear protective clothing to avoid bug bites.
6. Consider installing screens or netting around your outdoor living spaces to keep bugs out.
JULY 10, 2023
Personal | My Commitments To You As Your Realtor
Here are my commitments to you as your real estate agent, how I set myself apart from others in the industry, and why I should represent you in your next real estate transaction.
As your real estate agent...
1. I will work hard to ensure your real estate transaction goes as smoothly as possible.
2. I am committed to working with you. My clients will always come first.
3. I am eager and prepared to answer any questions that might come up during the buying or selling process.
4. I have detailed knowledge about the **Insert City** area and the real estate market, and I am committed to learning and putting aside time frequently for continuous education.
5. I always promise to be honest, transparent, and kind. I will never put my commission ahead of what’s best for you.
6. I will do my best to make the buying and/or selling process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
7. I am committed to being your biggest advocate, negotiating on your behalf to help meet your specific goals, needs, and objectives.
8. I promise to respect your time and personal details. I will not disclose any personal, financial, or other confidential information you share with me to anyone.
9. I promise to follow through, follow up, and communicate with you in a timely and professional manner.
10. I am committed to giving you 110%, 100% of the time!
Looking to start the buying or selling process? I’d love to connect — send me a DM and let’s chat!
JULY 11, 2023
Informative | 6 Things You Should Do Before House Hunting
JULY 12, 2023
Local | Arts & Culture In *Insert City* This Summer
Explore the **Insert City** art, history, theater, and comedy scene this summer with my guide to some of our local comedy clubs, live music events, art exhibits, museums, and theater shows!
Save this post for later by clicking the bookmark icon above! 📌
JULY 13, 2023
Home Tips | Create Your Perfect Summer Patio
Choose one item from each column to design your perfect summer patio, and share your picks below!
JULY 14, 2023
Personal | A Few Things You May Not Know About Me
If you've been following me for some time, you probably feel like you know me pretty well, right?!
But what are some things you may not know about me? Let's dive right into it👇🏼
**Insert 5-7 interesting facts about you! Ideas listed below
- Your least favorite food
- Your favorite food
- Your biggest fear
- Your first job
- Your favorite TV show
- Your go-to karaoke song
- Something you like to do in your free time
- Your most embarrassing moment
- Your proudest moment
- Your drink of choice
- Your first car
- Your favorite season
- Your favorite ice cream flavor
- Your favorite sports team
- A hidden talent you have
- Something you don't usually tell people
- Your weirdest dream
- Something you've overcome**
I'd love to get to know you better - share a fun fact about you in the comments below!
JULY 15, 2023
Home Tips | 7 Tips To Make Your Guest Room Feel Like A Dreamy Hotel
Here are 7 tips to give your guest bedroom a 5-star, luxe hotel feel:
1. Make sure the nightstands, dressers, and closets are empty so guests can unpack their things. Provide a luggage stand and hangers as well.
2. Leave fresh flowers and a welcome note on the day of their arrival.
3. Turndown the bed and place chocolates on the pillows
4. Stock your bathroom with plenty of folded towels, washcloths, spa-like robes, and sample-sized toiletries.
5. Use high-quality linens and focus on lots of layers.
6. Provide cordless chargers and reading lights.
7. Hang blackout curtains to give your guests the real hotel experience.
JULY 16, 2023
Informative | What Is A Temporary Rate Buydown?
JULY 17, 2023
Informative | Guide To Packing An "Open First" Box For Moving
JULY 18, 2023
Local | Your Next Date Night In **Insert City**
A temporary interest rate buydown is a financing tool that allows you to temporarily lower your interest rate for the first few years of the loan.
As a buyer, a temporary rate buydown is a great way to reduce the cost of your mortgage payment in exchange for an up-front cash deposit.
As a seller, a temporary rate buydown is a way to incentivize buyers to purchase your property (without lowering the listing price) by offering a seller concession for the sale of your home.
A temporary rate buydown is an excellent tool for buyers and sellers in this market!
Have questions? Send me a message, and let’s chat!
This box contains essential items that you will need immediately upon arrival at your new home, so you don't have to rummage through all your boxes to find them.
Here is my guide to packing an “open first box":
1. Clearly label the box so you can easily identify it among all your other boxes.
2. Pack all the essentials! Include items such as toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, towels, a first aid kit, phone chargers, and any important documents.
3. Consider the season. If you're moving in the winter, include warm clothes, blankets, and a space heater. If you're moving in the summer, pack sunscreen, hats, portable fans, and water bottles.
4. Pack snacks and water! Moving can be exhausting, so pack some snacks and water to keep you and your family energized during the move.
5. Pack cleaning supplies! Include basic cleaning supplies like paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and a small broom and dustpan.
6. Keep the box with you. Make sure to keep your "open first box" with you during the move, either in your car or as one of the last boxes packed in the moving truck.
Look no further — here is a full itinerary for your next date night in **Insert City, State** ❤️
JULY 19, 2023
Informative | 6 Tips To Improve Your Credit Worthiness
Your lender will assess your creditworthiness to ensure you are a qualified buyer before approving you for a mortgage. Your credit score plays a big role in applying for a mortgage. With a good credit score, you'll have more loan options, cheaper mortgage insurance, easier underwriting approvals, better homeowners insurance rates, and more!
Here are 6 tips to improve your creditworthiness:
1. Pay your credit cards and loans on time
2. Pay more than the minimum balance on your credit cards to eliminate debt
3. Avoid applying for multiple credit cards at the same time
4. Aim for 30% credit utilization or less
5. Check your credit report regularly and dispute errors if necessary
6. Avoid closing accounts, even after you've paid them off
JULY 20, 2023
Personal | Client Testimonial
**Insert client name**, thank you for trusting me and allowing me to be part of this exciting chapter in your life! Congratulations on your beautiful new home!
I take pride in providing my clients with exceptional service and expert guidance throughout the home-buying process. Here's what they had to say about working with me👇🏼
**Insert Client Testimonial Here**
JULY 21, 2023
Local | Things To Do This Weekend In **Insert City**
JULY 22, 2023
Informative | 5 Ways To Get A Better Interest Rate
Here are 5 ways to get a better interest rate and save money on your next mortgage:
1. Improve your credit score! Your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders consider when determining your interest rate. A good credit score makes you more likely to qualify for a lower interest rate. You can improve your credit score by paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low, and disputing errors on your credit report.
2. Shop around. It's important to shop around and compare interest rates from different lenders. You can often find a better interest rate by comparing offers from multiple lenders. Be sure to consider the fees and closing costs associated with each loan when comparing offers.
3. Increase your down payment! A larger down payment can help you qualify for a better interest rate. Lenders see a larger down payment as a sign of financial stability and are more likely to offer you a lower interest rate.
4. Choose a shorter loan term. Shorter loan terms typically come with lower interest rates. If you can afford a higher monthly payment, you might want to consider a shorter loan term to save money on interest over the life of the loan.
5. Consider a fixed-rate mortgage! Fixed-rate mortgages come with a set interest rate that doesn't change over the life of the loan. This can provide stability and peace of mind, especially if interest rates are expected to rise in the future.
There are several ways to get a better interest rate on your mortgage. By improving your credit score, shopping around, increasing your down payment, choosing a shorter loan term, and considering a fixed-rate mortgage, you can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan!
JULY 23, 2023
Informative | 5 Helpful Tips To Stay Cool During a Summer Move
Here are 5 helpful tips to stay cool during a summer move:
1. Plan your move during cooler hours. The best time to move during summer is early morning or late evening when the temperatures aren't as hot. Avoid moving during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
2. Stay hydrated. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they can cause dehydration.
3. Dress appropriately. Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing that is comfortable and breathable. Avoid dark colors as they absorb heat and can make you feel hotter.
4. Use fans and air conditioning. Keep your home cool by using fans and air conditioning. If you don't have air conditioning, consider renting a portable unit or opening windows to create a cross-breeze.
5. Take breaks. Moving can be exhausting, so take regular breaks to rest and cool down. Take advantage of air conditioning in your new home to cool off and relax before continuing with the move.
JULY 24, 2023
Local | Where To Celebrate National Tequila Day In **Insert City**
Whether you prefer a classic margarita, a spicy tequila sunrise, or a smooth tequila shot, there are plenty of ways to enjoy tequila on this special day.
If you live in **Insert City**, be sure to check out some of the top spots to enjoy a margarita, including **Insert Local Mexican Restaurant 1**, **Insert Local Mexican Restaurant 2**, **Insert Local Mexican Restaurant 3**, **Insert Local Mexican Restaurant 4**, and **Insert Local Mexican Restaurant 5**.
Remember to drink responsibly and have a designated driver if needed. Cheers to National Tequila Day!
JULY 25, 2023
Home Tips | 8 Tips To Organizing Your Kitchen Like a Pro
Get your kitchen in tip-top shape just in time for the new year! Here are 8 tips to organize your kitchen like a pro👇🏼
1. Declutter your utensil drawer and get rid of unnecessary tools.
2. Tackle your Tupperware drawer.
3. Organize your fridge and pantry into zones by grouping like items together (think party supplies, grab-and-go snacks, baking, canned goods, easy meals, etc).
4. Use stacking shelves to double your cabinet storage.
5. Throw away any expired or stale items in your pantry.
6. Clean out your junk drawer.
7. Use bins and baskets to organize smaller items (think pantry items, extra dish towels, reusable water bottles, etc).
8. Free up refrigerator door space by using acrylic turntables to organize your condiments and salad dressings.
JULY 26, 2023
Home Tips | 5 Entertaining Tips For Stress-Free Summer Parties
Here are five tips for summer entertaining:
1. Plan Ahead
The key to successful summer entertaining is to plan ahead. Decide on the date, time, and location of your event well in advance so that you have plenty of time to prepare. Make a list of everything you need, from food and drinks to decorations and seating arrangements. If you're inviting guests, send out invitations with plenty of notice so that everyone can plan accordingly.
2. Keep It Simple
Summer entertaining is all about simplicity. Don't try to do too much or overcomplicate things. Stick to easy-to-prepare dishes that can be made in advance, like salads, dips, and grilled meats. Serve refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea, and cocktails that can be made in large batches. Keep decorations simple and focus on creating a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
3. Provide Plenty Of Shade
Summer heat can be brutal, so make sure to provide plenty of shade for your guests. Set up umbrellas, canopies, or a tent to create a cool, comfortable space for everyone to relax in. If you're hosting a pool party, make sure there are plenty
4. Have Fun Games & Activities
Summer entertaining is all about having fun, so make sure to have plenty of games and activities for your guests to enjoy. Set up lawn games like cornhole, bocce ball, or horseshoes. If you have a pool, provide pool toys and floats for everyone to enjoy. You can even set up a photo booth with fun props for your guests to take silly pictures.
5. Don't Forget The Music
No summer party is complete without some great music. Create a playlist of upbeat, summery tunes that will get your guests in the mood to party. Make sure to have a good sound system set up so that everyone can hear the music.
With these five tips, you'll be well on your way to hosting a successful summer entertaining event. Remember to keep it simple, plan ahead, and have fun!
JULY 27, 2023
Local | Summer Volunteer Opportunities In *Insert City*
Summertime is a busy season for most, but there are many small ways to make a positive impact on the world around you. Whether you volunteer your time or donate to a local charity, your efforts can make a real difference in the lives of others!
Here are 5 ways to get involved & give back in **Insert City** this summer!
1. Volunteer at a local food bank! Food banks in Phoenix are always in need of volunteers to help sort and distribute food to those in need. You can volunteer at places like St. Mary's Food Bank or the Desert Mission Food Bank.
2. Help out at a community garden. Community gardens are a great way to give back to the community while also getting some fresh air and exercise. You can volunteer at places like the Roosevelt Growhouse or the Phoenix Public Market Urban Farm.
3. Clean up a local park or trail! Phoenix has many beautiful parks and trails, but they require regular maintenance. You can volunteer to help clean up litter, remove invasive plants, and maintain the trails at places like South Mountain Park or Papago Park.
4. Donate to a local charity! If you aren't interested in volunteering your time, you can still give back by donating to a local charity. Many great organizations in Phoenix accept donations, such as the United Way of Arizona or the Phoenix Rescue Mission.
5. Assist at a local animal shelter. Animal shelters in Phoenix are always in need of volunteers to help care for the animals. You can volunteer at places like the Arizona Animal Welfare League or the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control.
You can find more information about all of these opportunities online or on social media! Be sure to save this post for later by clicking the bookmark icon above!
JULY 28, 2023
Home Tips | 4 Items You Need To Create An Instagram Worthy Pantry
Is there anything worse than a messy pantry? The good news is you can organize your pantry to be just as practical as it is pretty by using the right products and putting a functional system in place!
Here are 4 items you need to make your pantry look "Insta-Worthy" in no time:
1. Storage containers
Clear storage containers are ideal for organizing dry goods like pasta, rice, and cereal. They help keep food fresh, make it easy to see what you have, and can be neatly stacked together, saving space in your pantry.
2. Baskets and bins
Baskets and bins are great for storing snacks, canned goods, and other items that don't fit in storage containers. They can also be used to group like items together, making it easy to find what you need.
3. Turntable organizers
Turntables are rotating trays that make it easy to access items at the back of your pantry. They are ideal for storing oils, vinegars, and spices.
4. Shelf risers
Shelf risers are a great way to make the most of vertical space in your pantry. They elevate items on one shelf, creating extra space underneath for storing more items.
Shop all the products on the graphic above on the mDesign Store on Amazon! Happy organizing!
JULY 29, 2023
Personal | What Fuels My Fire
I work as hard as I do because **Insert Your Why Statement**. Motivation comes and goes, but I love what I do, and **Insert Your Why** gets through even the most challenging of days.
What fuels your fire and motivates you to work hard and chase your dreams? Comment below!
JULY 30, 2023
Home Tips | 5 Kitchen Gadgets You Need From Amazon This Summer
Here are a few tools to take your kitchen to the next level👇🏼
A. Prepdeck Mini Chopper
B. Mini Dustpan
C. Jar Openers
D. Hanging Kitchen Waste Bins
E. Silicone Food Huggers
JULY 31, 2023
Local | Ways To Escape The Heat In *Insert City*
If you are looking for fun indoor things to do in **Insert City** to get out of the sun, you've come to the right place.
Here are 5 family-friendly activities to escape the heat in **Insert City** this summer!
1. Bounce around at **Insert Local Indoor Trampoline Park**
2. Cool off at **Insert Local Indoor Water Park**
3. Spend the afternoon at **Insert Local Aquarium**
4. Learn something new at **Insert Local Museum**
5. Explore your artistic skills at **Insert Local Pottery Or Art Studio**
What's on your summer 2023 bucket list? Comment below!