Springtime Visitors...

It’s time get outside and enjoy the warmer months ahead! But who wants to spend time outdoors if you are constantly swatting at flying pests? As the temperature rises, so does the activity of wasps and other flying pests. And don’t forget about the 2 broods of cicadas set to hatch in our area sometime from mid-May through the end of June! The cicadas will come and go, but there are some things you can do to minimize the impact of the other pests in your outdoor space who want to make your home, theirs.

Keep in mind that insects have three basic needs: food, water, and shelter. Getting rid of them requires you to eliminate these resources so they will go elsewhere. Start by regularly cleaning outdoor areas where pests could be present. Remove any debris close to the foundation or the roof including gutters. When dining outside, remove food stuck in your grill after cooking, pick up anything that has fallen to the ground and secure trash cans that contain food waste and partially empty soda or other beverage cans. Insects are not picky eaters, and those tiny scraps could provide them a nice buffet! If you are a gardener and compost food scraps, those bins should also be well sealed.

Inspect the outside of your home for cracks or crevices that could provide shelter. Pests can enter your home through the smallest openings, so don’t overlook the importance of this step. Specifically pay attention to areas around doors, windows, and plumbing which are all attractive locations for new nests.

Maintain the rest of your yard regularly. Remove dead leaves, trim overgrown shrubs, and keepa good distance between mulch or soil and your home’s foundation. These steps can discourage pests from nesting near your home and eventually finding their way inside.

If you discover an issue, there are many different self-help options of sprays and traps available through a quick internet search. However, be sure to follow all instructions on any DIY products, especially if you are working around plumbing or electrical sources. If you discover a large nest or infestation, you may want to call in a pest expert for professional assistance. If you can catch a pest problem early before it becomes an issue, you will have a much more enjoyable outdoor season!

“You’ve Got A Friend in Real Estate” www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

The COST of Clutter

The Cost of Clutter

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to FINALLY get your house in order in 2024?  Have you lost momentum as we enter February?  Whether you are getting ready to start your search for a new home or trying to make your current living space better serve your family’s needs, now is the time to press on! 

Need some inspiration?  If you do a quick search for “decluttering”, you will find a wide variety of videos to watch on the topic ranging from minimalism to hoarding and everything in between.  Regardless of how much clutter you have in your home, the one main theme that seems to run through most decluttering videos is cost.  You may not think about the “cost” of storing something in your own home, but if it is taking up valuable space it could be costing you time, money, or both!  Do you have to park your car outside in the cold while because your garage is filled with things you no longer need or use?  Have you ever paid late fees on bills or lost important documents because you have too much paper clutter in your office?  Is your guest room ready for guests?

If you are thinking of moving, consider how much you want to pack.  Decluttering your space now not only makes it easier for you to list your home, but also makes it cheaper if you are paying movers.  If you plan on staying in your current home and just want your space to be more calm and useful, you may want to re-evaluate the items you are storing to determine what could be rearranged, discarded, or donated.

Although you may not have hours of time to devote to another project, don’t underestimate the power of starting the process by working for a few minutes here or there to regain some valuable space and calm in your home.  As you move through your home, think about the areas that cause the most frustration and how removing unnecessary items would make the space more pleasant or efficient.  Do you avoid preparing meals in your kitchen because you don’t want to search through the pantry?  Do you have kitchen items stored in another part of your home?  Does it take you forever to choose something to wear because there are so many items in your closet that you are overwhelmed or do you wear the same few items because they are easily accessible?

As you go through your home, decide what you will keep, donate, or discard and try to include those who use the space in this decision-making process.  Whether you start with a room or drawer, have a plan about what happens to the items you find in each space.  Could those items be more useful to another person or family?  If you don’t immediately know someone who could benefit from your excess items, remember that there are many organizations that will be happy to get your donations and many offer free pick-up services!

Once you declutter, be vigilant about what comes back in to your home!  Think carefully before accepting items from others who are cleaning out their spaces.  Just because an item is “free” doesn’t always make it a good value if you must store it and will rarely use it!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

"You've Got a Friend in Real Estate"

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

Cash-Out Refinance vs. Home Equity Loan vs. HELOC: What’s the Difference???

If you listen to any radio station, watch television, or stream any online content you have probably seen or heard the quick ads encouraging you to consider debt consolidation using cash-out refinance or a home equity loan. If you have considered a home improvement project, you may also have heard about getting a HELOC. The similarity of all three options is that they are tied to your home’s equity, but what are the differences, and should you consider using one?

Here is some basic information for each:

A cash-out refinance uses your home’s equity for a cash payment made directly to you and it is done by replacing (paying off) your current mortgage with a new, larger mortgage that includes the amount of money you owed on the original mortgage plus the amount of equity you borrowed. The new larger mortgage will have a new interest rated and new payment terms. Depending on lenders, rates and your current credit score the new interest rate may be higher or lower than the original rate.

A home equity loan is also known as a “second mortgage” and like the cash-out refinance, is based on the difference between what is owed on your home versus the home’s current market value. It doesn’t replace your first mortgage but is in addition to the first mortgage for the amount of equity you borrow. It normally has a fixed interest rate which depending on current market numbers and your credit score could be higher or lower than your first mortgage.

A HELOC is similar to a home equity loan but instead of getting a check at closing for one lump sum, you apply for access to a specific amount based on your home’s equity and it acts as a revolving line of credit that you can draw on as needed (usually by using a debit card or checks), pay back, and then draw on again. Repayment terms and conditions are determined by your lender and interest rates are usually variable.

This is just a brief high-level comparison of these products as an educational starting point and there are many pros and cons to consider. The main advantage is the possibility of borrowing money for needed expenses or debt consolidation at interest rates generally lower than those offered by credit cards or personal loans. The main disadvantage of these products is that they are all tied to your home so you could risk losing your home if you default on payments just as you would if you missed payments on your primary mortgage. If you feel one of these products might benefit you financially, you should discuss all of your options with your lending institution or financial representative and shop around for some comparison terms and rates before signing on that dotted line!

Time to Change the Clocks and the Batteries!

This weekend as we “fall back” with the clocks, it’s a perfect time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Many homes have newer smoke detection systems hard-wired into electrical panels so the backup batteries tend to last longer but can still run down if you have experienced some power outages over the year since they were last checked.  

If you have older stand-alone models, it’s probably better to change the batteries and test the unit whether you think the battery is still functional or not since a weak battery will undoubtedly alert you by chirping in the middle of the night! 

Other newer (non-hardwired) models have built-in batteries that can’t be changed.  They start beeping after a certain pre-determined time period which signals that you need to replace the whole unit. 

And, in case you were wondering if you still had to change your clocks early Sunday morning, there has been no advancement of the Sunshine Protection Act passed by the U.S. Senate in March 2022.  The Act was meant to end the practice of changing the clocks back to standard time for the period of November through March each year.  The 2023 version of the bill stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives so plan to get that extra hour of sleep Sunday morning!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

"You've Got a Friend in Real Estate"

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

Time for an insurance audit?

As we approach the end of another quarter of 2023, now is a good time for a friendly reminder about your homeowner’s insurance policy.  When was the last time you looked at your policy’s coverage and cost?  Let the headlines about the most recent wildfires and tropical storms serve as a reminder to look at your policy and make adjustments accordingly.

Many homeowners don’t pay close attention to their insurance policy since it’s wrapped into their monthly mortgage payment.  Every year around the month you purchased your home you probably receive a letter from your insurance company showing what the current insurance coverage is on your home and reminds you to contact them if you need to make any changes before the new policy AND premium go into effect.  If you make no changes, a new bill is sent either to you or to the mortgage company. 

Insurance premiums have generally increased for almost everyone over the last few years even if you haven’t filed any claims.  It may be worth your time to review your existing policy to see if there are any changes that could be made to lower your premiums.  Did you get a new roof installed or get rid of a trampoline?  Could you afford to increase your deductible? 

No one wants to think about losing their home or possessions but having enough coverage in the event of a disaster is an important part of your financial health.  There is a fine line between being under- and over-insured and your insurance professional can help you determine your risk.  And, if you decide to shop for some new quotes, it may not be as time-consuming as you think because many companies now have quote tools available online where you are able to enter property details and then arrange for a representative to contact you which will save you time on the phone answering all those questions. 

Taking some time now to review your coverage will help you protect one of your largest investments!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

"You've Got a Friend in Real Estate"

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

Time to finish what you started!

We are well into August and now that school is back in session, free time and lazy days are at a premium! Even if you don’t have children in school, you have probably noticed a bit of a shift with the amount of daylight as the days become shorter. It’s hard to believe there is only one more official “summer” holiday and then it is time to start thinking about fall and all the projects that come along with cooler weather. How many of you still have unfinished projects from summer?

August is a good month to wrap up any outstanding outdoor projects on your to-do list. Did you start cleaning out the garage but never finished and have a pile of items to donate? If so, there are many local charitable organizations who will be happy to take some of what you no longer need and may even pick-up your donations. If you have summer gear that needs to be cleaned and stored for winter, now is a good time to purchase storage containers at a discount during the back-to-school sales.

Did you intend to clean out the gutters or power wash a deck? While you are working with the hose it might also be a good time to clean your screens and windows. And, if you are dragging a ladder around the yard, you might as well check the outdoor lights and replace broken bulbs too!

If you planted a garden or have been tending flower beds, now is a good time to start cleaning up some debris to get ready for some fall plants. If you cleaned out flower beds or edged earlier in the year, it may be time for a small touch-up and some new mulch if weeds are starting to re-emerge from all the rain we’ve had.

Take some time now to complete your remaining summer outdoor projects and get ready to welcome fall because football season is just around the corner!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

“You’ve Got a Friend in Real Estate”

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

Giving Your AC a Break!

There should be no doubt that summer has arrived, and it has brought along its friend “humidity” to keep us company!  This is just a reminder that your AC unit needs all the help it can get right now and that includes a fresh filter.

Keeping the filters clean in your unit helps to maintain the health of your unit as well as the air you and breathe inside your home.  If the filters are dirty, the unit has to work harder to "condition" the air and your wallet and air quality may suffer as a result!  

Some filters have time recommendations on the packaging, but if you run your unit more or less or have some furry friends in your home those recommendations may not be accurate for your specific needs.  You may use your unit more and need to change them more frequently or less and a one-month filter may last two!   There are many different styles of filters available at many different price points from the cheapest fiber glass filters to more expensive pleated filters with a variety of ratings depending on the filtration level you want.  It is helpful to have a few extra filters in the correct size on hand so you can change them as the need arises rather than having to put it off for a shopping trip.

When you change the filters, follow the instructions on the package, specifically the direction the arrow should be facing for airflow.  If your HVAC unit or thermostat has an app, you may be able to see usage time on the filter in the app and be able to reset it when the filter is changed.  If not, a helpful low-tech option is to simply write the date on the filter when you change it so you can monitor easily just by looking at it.  You can also add a monthly reminder to your calendar to quickly inspect them and replace as necessary to keep the unit and your family healthy!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

"You've Got a Friend in Real Estate"

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

June is National Home Ownership Month

We all know that our home is more than a place to live, especially after experiencing the pandemic.  It was then that many realized their home was a place of refuge.  Almost overnight, our homes turned into make-shift workplaces, schools, and restaurants!  They became main hubs for most family activities.  During that time many homeowners re-evaluated the size and functionality of their homes.  Some sought larger homes to handle requirements of the “new normal” like working from home and home-schooling.  Many others refinanced their homes at historically low interest rates and took on some home improvement projects that would customize existing space for their families for the long term. 

According to statistics, about 65% of Americans are homeowners.  And although it has become more expensive to become a homeowner, it is still one of the best investments you can make if the time is right for you!  Most news stories are filled with doom and gloom about the costs associated with new homeownership.  They report negatively that the cost of owning a home has increased and mortgage rates are climbing by the day.  (Just a side note that rates are no longer 3-4%, but they are also not in the 8-10% range of the 1980’s and early 90’s either!)  They say that competition for listings is challenging and then mention the taxes, insurance and maintenance costs associated with home ownership that you don’t need to budget for as a renter.  That seems like a lot of cons to homeownership if you are making a list!

But, if you are financially prepared and have planned ahead, making the move from renting to home ownership can offer important long-term benefits to you and your family.  Owning a home can provide increased stability and freedom.  You are no longer living in someone else’s space or on their timeline for lease renewals.  If you get a fixed rate mortgage, you also gain some control and regularity regarding monthly housing expenses.  If you want to stay forever, you can, which is especially important if you have children in school.  Many people take up hobbies or roles within their new communities that may not have been possible while renting and most first-time homebuyers report happiness with their choice and are content with how it has changed their lives for the better.

There are many factors to consider before becoming a homeowner and the decision to buy is based on each individual’s specific circumstances and needs.  Research can be overwhelming with so many things to consider.  I have helped many new homebuyers reach their goal and would be happy to assist in any way I can!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

"You've Got a Friend in Real Estate"

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

But...where will we go?

I’ve had many conversations with friends and family lately about selling and moving.  Although everyone has their own unique story and set of circumstances, most discussions seem to end with the same phrase, “…but where would we go?”

The current market in Middle Tennessee is interesting to say the least, but not impossible to navigate.  Current sales prices are up in most areas, mainly because this is a GREAT place to live!  However, another factor in play is the amount of inventory available.  It’s a basic “supply and demand” scenario where when there are more buyers than homes for sale, prices generally rise.

Many homeowners have quite a bit of equity in their homes and would like to trade up, find a new local neighborhood, downsize, or even sell and move out of town.  The thought of capturing that profit with a relatively quick sale is appealing.  However, many are concerned that when their homes sell, they will either not be able to find a suitable replacement or if found, be unaffordable.

If you’ve had similar thoughts about selling, try to keep an open mind about your purchase options.  Do you have your heart set on a specific neighborhood, or can you be flexible and explore a wider range that will get you close to your desired area?  Have you compared the different benefits between buying an existing home and building a new one?  Are you open to small renovation projects to customize or update an existing home?  Remember to consider and explore all purchase options and you might be surprised at what you find on your search for a new home!

If you are planning to list your home and move, now is the time to act!  School will be out soon, and many buyers will want to relocate before the next school year begins.  If you haven’t already done so, get your home in tip-top shape by fixing any outstanding issues and freshen the curb appeal.  This is a competitive market so in order to get top price you must go above and beyond your competition.  If you are in doubt about where to start, call me and we can look at closed sales in your area, drill down on the details of your new home search and get the process started!

“You’ve Got A Friend in Real Estate”

Home Security Check-Up

How secure is your home? Do you lock your doors and call it a day, or do you have a strategic web of cameras and motion detectors installed that would rival the best spy movie? Most people are somewhere in between with deadbolts, outdoor lighting and maybe a doorbell camera. There are many aspects to consider when you think about your home’s security and not all are dependent on high-tech options. Protecting your home and neighborhood from intruders is important and worth a review from time to time, especially as we move towards summer when trips and activities keep us away from our homes more often.

One of the easiest places to start is to meet your neighbors! Know who lives around you andwatch out for each other. That is a low-tech option that doesn’t cost a thing!

Other more obvious security measures include making sure all doors and windows lock properlyand use them! Did you remember to check and lock your windows after the last time you or aservice cleaned them?

Check exterior lighting and replace bulbs that are burned out. If you are the DIY type, it may befairly easy for you to swap out some old exterior fixtures with newer, more efficient modelsthat have motion sensors. If changing light fixtures is not your area of expertise, it is somethingeasily handled by most handyman services and new fixtures can be purchased in at all pricepoints.

Most people probably have at least a doorbell camera installed and maybe a camera inside their home somewhere. As with any technology, these types of cameras have become much more affordable over time. They have also gotten easier to set up if you have a tablet or smart phone and are comfortable connecting items to your home’s wireless network. Once connected, many cameras are also compatible with existing smart home components so you can control thermostats, lights, doors, and cameras through one app from anywhere. You may not be ready for that spy security plan just yet but taking a few basic steps can help make your home more secure for your family!

Spring into the Market!

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring!  It certainly doesn't feel like it today as those last few snowflakes were floating in the air, but at least based on the calendar there is hope that winter is over!  Of course, there are those unofficial "winters" (blackberry or dogwood sound familiar?) that occur every year through April and early May to describe the odd pockets of cold weather that occur here in Tennessee.  So, if you have recently moved here from somewhere completely different, don't get too overzealous and load up on flowers from the local garden center just yet or you will end up covering or otherwise "babysitting them for the next month if they are not cold hardy options!

If you are thinking of listing your home for sale, now is the best time to tidy up your yard for maximum curb appeal to greet prospective buyers even if it is a bit too early to plant flowers.  If you've taken advantage of the few sunny days we've had, you've probably been picking up endless amounts of branches and sticks from the most recent storm a few weeks ago.  If not, check your yard before mowing the first time to avoid any mower damage.  As you or your landscape professional work in the yard, you may notice some shrubs and bushes that look a little more brown than usual from that freakishly cold weather we had around Christmas.  Some bushes may need to be more heavily pruned than normal and others may be dead and have to be replaced.  The colder than normal winter temperatures didn't seem to affect the weeds though...they appear to be as green and numerous as ever!  Keep in mind the growth and care requirements of any new replacement plants you buy for ease of future yard maintenance.

Refreshing the appearance of your yard and landscape beds after the long winter is a very affordable way to perk up the curb appeal of your home, add visual interest and help draw in the perfect buyer.  Call me if I can help you in any way!

Jarod Tanklsey 615.403.8265

Brentview Realty 615.373.2814

Indoor Air Quality - It's Not Just About the Scent!

As winter draws to a close, do you find yourself opening some windows on a sunny day to “air things out?” There is nothing like some cool, fresh air to perk up your space this time of year, especially in bathrooms and bedrooms! However, the air quality of your home is about more than just those random odd smells from pets, cooking or when someone forgets to take out the trash. The air quality in your home is a very important element for your family’s safety and comfort and often forgotten until maintenance or health issues arise. Here are a few things to consider if you want to improve the air quality in your home.

Proper ventilation is a necessity! Some may wish their homes didn’t have quite so much ventilation, especially if they live in an older home with inadequate insulation or older windows and doors. However, if you live in a home built in the last few decades, technology has improved, and you probably don’t have much air leaking in from the outside or from a crawl space. But, this lack of outside air can create other problems especially if you have any gas-powered appliances, water heaters or fireplaces. Maintain good air circulation in your home by using the appropriate ventilation or exhaust fans installed in your home that will remove fumes and other by-products of these items. If you don’t use exhaust fans because they are loud, do some research and replace them with newer, more quiet options. Most exhaust fans will have decibel levels listed in their descriptions and you can even test models in certain stores before buying.

Another part of good indoor air quality is moisture control. Many people have humidifiers attached directly to their heating units or use stand-alone humidifiers in the winter to combat the dryness created by forced-air heat. However, too much humidity is just as bad as too little when it comes to air quality. If condensation forms on windows or you notice spots of mold or mildew on walls, adjust the amount of moisture your unit is dispensing and get an inexpensive hygrometer to monitor the humidity of a space if the unit does not have one built in.

And last but not least, be sure to change or clean all filters regularly according to manufacturer’s instructions on any system in your home that filters air or adds moisture and don’t forget the vacuum cleaner! The air quality in your home is very important to your family’s health and comfort and should not be overlooked even if you can’t smell a thing!

Jarod Tanksley - 615.403.8265  

“You’ve Got a Friend in Real Estate”

BRENTVIEW REALTY 615.373.2814

www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com

Monitoring Your Systems

There are two types of home improvement projects.  The first type is the kind you get to think about, research, plan and imagine how much you will enjoy when it is finished, for example, a kitchen upgrade.  The second type is…insulation for your crawl space.

We would all prefer to spend our home improvement budgets on projects that are more cosmetic in nature or done to enhance living style.  No one really wants to spend money to have gutters cleaned and trenches dug to keep water from backing up against the foundation.  This is a reminder to take a “peek under the hood” at some items around your home that require regular maintenance to keep your home safe, sound and functioning well.

Here are a few areas that should be monitored regularly for signs of trouble:

·      Water-are there unusual sounds from pipes, small leaks, drips, or areas of discoloration on walls or ceilings especially after there have been large temperature changes up and down within short periods of time

·      Electricity-take note of odd dimming of lights, constant blown out light bulbs in multiple fixtures or power outages when nothing is going on in the neighborhood

·      HVAC system-check and change filters regularly, listen to how the unit runs when it starts and stops, and review run history if you have a smart thermostat to detect issues early

·      Pests-check closets, attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces for unwanted guests and treat appropriately to stop early infestations before they multiply

·      Cracks-any cracks that have formed in drywall, concrete block, or bricks inside or near the foundation could be early warning signs of trouble ahead

 It would be great if we could just do the fun projects, but unfortunately, if you don’t take care of regular maintenance in these areas from time to time, small issues could easily become expensive emergency repairs.   

Increased Buying Power

When applying for a mortgage, there is a maximum limit to how much can be borrowed.  The amount a borrower can qualify for is based on a variety of factors that include meeting specific income and credit standards.  When considering the approval of an application, mortgage companies and banks are not just considering the perspective borrower’s financial status but are also bound by the financial limits set forth by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).  These loan limits are called conforming loan limits.

For those who are considering a new mortgage there is great news!  The new conforming loan limits have been released for 2023 and are effective as of November 30th, 2022.  The new conforming loan limit is $726,200.  This is an increase of $79,000 from $647,200 for 2022.  

What does this mean for the consumer?  It means if you have been thinking about a new home you will have more buying power! Raising the conforming loan limit means that more loans will be in the conforming space rather than being classified as a jumbo loan which have restrictions and conditions beyond the conforming limit and in most cases have interest rates slightly higher than the conforming rate.

There are multiple loan options available to home buyers specific to your individual financial circumstances.  If you are considering buying a home and have questions about a new mortgage and the new limits, contact me today!

Brittney Campbell

Wesley Mortgage, LLC

NMLS ID #184975

(615) 491-4744
brittney.campbell@wesleymortgage.com

What time is It?

Do you feel like you just can’t get enough natural light in your home since the time changed? Join the club! It’s this time of year that reminds us how important natural light is to our health and well-being.

Think about how you feel when bright sunshine streams through your windows, especially on a cold day. While there isn’t much you can do about winter coming or the shorter days, there are a few things that can be done to improve the amount and quality of natural light in your home. And, aside from improving your outlook, increasing the natural light in your home can also help lower your electricity bill, so consider it a win!

There are a few easy steps you can take to improve the amount of natural light in your home. Start outdoors with your landscaping. Do you have low tree limbs or bushes covering the windows? If you have overgrown landscaping, some targeted pruning may be all it takes to get more light into your home.

Another quick tip is to remove screens, especially if they are on windows that are rarely opened. Clean the screens and store them in a safe place where they won’t get damaged. If you are removing quite a few screens, use some painter's or masking tape to label them so replacing them when the season changes will be quick and easy.

And don’t underestimate the impact of cleaning your windows. Many newer windows are designed to be cleaned easily from the inside, but if you are unable to clean your own windows, consider one of the many economical cleaning services available. Many will clean windows on your desired schedule several times per year for a discounted rate.

Once you have clean, unobstructed windows, look at your interior decorating options. Do you have dark and heavy window coverings to keep rooms cool for the summer? Consider swapping out those heavy fabrics with lighter ones that can still provide privacy but allow light to enter your home more easily. If you are really looking for a DIY project before the holidays, painting walls and ceilings in lighter colors is also an option to improve the brightness of your spaces.

Some homes simply don’t have a ton of natural light because of their design or lot placement, so work with what you have and consider new lamp configurations with new, brighter light bulbs. Most home improvement or lighting stores have displays that will allow you to see different “temperatures” of light bulbs before you buy so you can match the color you already have in your home. Whether you try one or all of these options, hopefully you will be able to improve the light in your space for a more enjoyable winter season!

Seasonal Checklist

October is drawing to a close and as we prepare to change the clocks, there are a few seasonal tasks could use your attention around the house.

You may have already switched from air conditioning to heat, or you will be doing so soon.  Now is a good time to schedule a system check and replace filters if needed.  There are many different types of filters available with different replacement cycles.  To help you remember when you last changed the filter, simply add the date somewhere on the frame of the filter with a marker as a reminder.

If you use ceiling fans year-round, it is time to reverse the fan’s direction as your heat begins to run on a more regular basis.  Fans running in the winter should be turning in the clockwise direction which will draw air up from the floor, pushing the warm air above back down towards the living area.  Older fans probably have a slide switch somewhere near the motor or light kit.  Be sure the fan is off, and the blades have stopped spinning before changing the direction.  Newer fans may have a reverse button on a remote control which when pushed will first stop the fan and then reverse the direction automatically.  If you aren’t sure how to reverse the direction of your ceiling fans, check the owner’s manual for details.  And, if it has been a while since you’ve cleaned the fan blades, now might be a good time to keep the little dust bunnies from taking flight when the fan starts spinning in the opposite direction!

Energy costs are increasing, and no one wants to pay more than necessary to heat their home.  While it is still warm outside, check the weatherstripping around doors and windows and look for gaps around ductwork or plumbing that could be sealed.  If you find items that are too large or difficult to DIY, there are companies that will do energy audits and repairs to get your home ready for winter.  Spending a bit of time now doing some small repairs could really pay off in the form of improved comfort and energy savings this winter!

Fall Market Update

The weather isn’t the only thing that has cooled off in the past few months.  The housing market has also experienced some changes that have given many a reason to pause the decision of whether or not to buy or sell.  While it is true that the costs of homes and mortgage rates are up over last year, for those who still want or need to move, this might not be as bad as it sounds.

Just a year ago, homes were being sold quickly, often sight unseen with few to no contingencies, piles of offers and bidding wars for amounts well above asking prices that were already higher than other neighborhood values.  Many sellers were nervous to list their homes because they had nowhere to go if their home sold quickly. 

Fast forward a year and market conditions have changed quite a bit.  Everything costs more right now, including houses.  Some buyers have decided that either because of the higher costs of a new home or the increase in costs to borrow money, now is not the time for them to move.  That means less competition for the buyers who remain.  With fewer buyers, homes are typically staying on the market longer which has spurred some sellers to make price adjustments or other concessions to close.

The purchase or sale of a home is a large financial decision and almost always challenging even under the best of circumstances.  Whether or not this is an ideal time to buy or sell depends on your goals and needs rather than the chatter of the media about what may or may not happen.  Do you need more or less space NOW?  Are you ready to move?  Is your financial house in order?  How much of your budget can you dedicate to a down payment and new mortgage payment?  If you want to list your home, are you and your family prepared for a longer listing period of weeks rather than days?  Do you have realistic expectations for your list price based on current market conditions?  Would you consider pricing or other concessions to facilitate a sale? 

Although market conditions have changed over the past few months versus a year ago, this may still be the time for you to buy or sell based on your specific circumstances.  I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about your home’s value or help with any of your other real estate needs!

Are we there yet?

 Ready to put away the mower or cancel your lawn service for the season?  Hold on, not so fast!  The weather is still quite warm during the day and above 60 degrees at night so the grass will continue to grow, just not as fast as it would in spring.  The bad news is that you will still need to mow but the good news is you won’t need to mow as often.  And maybe it will even turn green and look like grass again instead of brown scorched earth!  Once there is frost and daytime temperatures drop below about 50 degrees, growth will slow and you are off the hook for the year, at least for mowing!

Other than mowing, there are a few tasks that if handled over the next few weeks will help ensure a better start for your lawn next spring.  If you want to give your lawn the best start after winter, consider aeration and fertilization now.  In the next few weeks, it will also be prime time for reseeding or laying sod in bare areas.  Aeration will help break up the dry compacted soil from the heat of the summer allowing anything you plant to get a better start.  Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall will help the grass seed germinate or roots to take hold and fill in those empty spaces with much less effort.  Just remember as leaves start to fall to keep them raked or chopped up, so the new grass growth doesn’t get smothered.  Now is also a good time to plant some new shrubs, trees or even a few fall vegetables in your garden for the same reason.  Plants can send out some new roots and thrive without the stress of being burned alive in the summer sun!  Just because summer has come to an end doesn’t mean the growing season has to be over!

This is also a great time to clean up landscaped beds, trim dead limbs and branches, plant some perennials, and apply some new mulch.  A little extra mulch applied now can help with control of weed growth over winter months especially if it is warmer or we get more rainfall than usual.

With just a bit of planning in the next month or two you can ensure a strong start for your lawn and a little less maintenance for your landscaping next year!

Are You Ready to Weather a Storm?

We are midway through summer and have had few weather-related issues to deal with this season (knocking on wood, NOW!) unlike our neighbors to the north in Kentucky where flooding this week has hit areas hard resulting in wide-spread destruction, leaving many homeless or at the least with some water damage and without electricity and the usual comforts a home provides.

Tennessee has had its fair share of weather-related emergencies in the past few decades, so you probably feel ready to handle most small inconveniences that come with the storms each season. However, it is always good to do a review of your emergency plan and supplies a few times each year to ensure you and your family are prepared whether you must evacuate quickly or shelter in place!

Generators are a very smart and popular first line of defense in an emergency and have been widely advertised lately, especially the “whole house” size. Although they are a great investment, depending on the size of the home, they can start at a cost of around $20,000 for professional installation plus another $1,000-$1,500/year in maintenance costs to keep the warranty valid. For something that may never be needed, that is a pretty steep price tag. However, there are many affordable smaller gas-
powered generator options and battery back-up power banks available starting at a few hundred dollars can be quite useful during short-term power outages. Some may even be useful during your next tailgate party! Just remember if you have a gas-powered generator to test it regularly, have a few long heavy-duty extension cords on hand (refer to your generator’s owner’s manual for proper type/usage information) and keep your gas cans full!

The next two items needed are water and food. Choose food that won’t require a lot of preparation and also has a decent shelf life that everyone likes. If you don’t already have these items in your emergency plan, start with a few days’ supply for each person and pet and gradually add to your stash over time. A simple internet search will provide some ideas about what to buy. Be sure to store your items in a cool, dry location and rotate items in and out throughout the year to keep everything fresh.

If there are prescription medications used by members of your household, be sure to know their location if you had to access them quickly upon evacuation or have some extra over-the-counter medications and a first aid kit stashed near your food and water supply. You should also have some cash on hand and know where important items like wallets, keys, phones, charging cables and
eyeglasses are stored if you must leave your home. Not every emergency will happen during the summer so you will also want to have some cold weather gear and extra blankets on hand. Always have some extra batteries along with a few flashlights or other battery or solar-powered lights and test them regularly. And, if you don’t already have one, buy a radio. Choose an old-school model that uses batteries, a hand crank or has solar-powered capabilities and doesn’t require data streaming to work.

These are just a few simple ideas to get you started on an emergency plan. Most people think about preparing during or right after an emergency has already happened, then life happens, and they forget until the next disaster. If you don’t have a plan, there’s no better time to make one than now, while the sun is shining! .....   "You've Got A  Friend in Real Estate"

Jarod Tanksley 615.403.8265
www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com
Brentview Realty  615.373.2814

Most homebuyers spend countless hours looking for the right home, making sure all the proper paperwork has been submitted to the right people and then finally get those keys! Woohoo! And then after closing all that documentation is stored somewhere and most don’t pay attention to the makeup of their monthly mortgage payment unless it increases. This is especially true if the payment is made electronically. Most homeowners do take notice when their monthly payment increases, and one major part of your mortgage payment is the homeowner’s insurance premium.

Every year around the month you purchased your home you probably receive a letter from your insurance company showing what the current insurance coverage is on your home and reminds you to contact them if you need to make any changes before the new policy AND premium go into effect. If you make no changes a new bill is sent either to you or to the mortgage company. Over the last year or two most homeowners have seen increases in their policy rates when the notices of renewal arrive even though nothing has changed with coverage and no claims have been filed.

One of the main reasons you are seeing premium increases is directly related to the increase in cost of labor and building materials. Supply chains are tight making building materials harder to source and more expensive and the labor shortage isn’t helping either. You have experienced this firsthand if you have done any home improvement projects during the last year or two. A premium increase is the insurance company’s way of dealing with rising costs if something happens to your home and you need to make a claim.

Now is the time to take a closer look at your policy provisions and be certain you have the coverage you need especially if you have you made upgrades to your home since you purchased it. Did you put in a new bathroom or upgrade the kitchen? If changes have been significant then you should discuss with your agent to ensure proper coverage. After all, you probably don’t keep the same insurance coverage on an old car as you would a brand new one! Keep in mind the many moving parts of a homeowner’s
policy and review it at least yearly to be sure you have the coverage you need. No one wants to think about losing their home and possessions, but could you afford to rebuild it and replace everything you own at today’s cost if you suffered a loss?

The same policy review could also save you money! Can your deductible be raised? Are you paying for coverage you no longer need for example like coverage added for a trampoline you no longer own now that the kids are out of the house? Did you get a new roof or upgrade a security system? Most companies also offer discounts if you have multiple policy types with them or if you have newer systems installed.

Take some time now to review coverage with your agent to protect one of your largest investments!

..... "You've Got A Friend in Real Estate"

Jarod Tanksley 615.403.8265
www.BrentwoodandBeyond.com
Brentview Realty 615.373.2814