Home Maintenance • Real Estate • June 13, 2025

How to Boost Your Home’s Charm

by Linda Thomas

Image via Pexels

How to Boost Your Home’s Charm and Close That Sale Fast

Selling your home is more than slapping a “For Sale” sign in the yard and waiting for the offers to roll in. It’s about capturing the hearts of buyers at first glance and making them imagine their future within those walls. But the question stands: how do you make sure your home isn’t just another listing? Let’s talk about a handful of home improvement projects that will help you enhance your home’s allure and move that “Sold” sign onto your lawn swiftly.

Freshen Up With a New Coat of Paint

One of the easiest ways to breathe new life into your home is with a fresh coat of paint. Neutral tones like soft grays, creamy whites, and pale taupes do more than just modernize your walls — they create a clean backdrop that allows potential buyers to imagine their own style in the space. Consider this a blank canvas for their dreams. When buyers see a home that looks like it’s been loved and maintained, they’re far more likely to see themselves living there.

Bring in the Light With Updated Fixtures

Lighting is often the unsung hero of home design. Swap out dated brass chandeliers and dingy sconces for sleek, contemporary fixtures. Think warm, inviting glow — not harsh fluorescent glare. The right lighting can change the mood of an entire room, making small spaces feel open and inviting. Remember, buyers are drawn to homes that feel warm and cozy, not cold and clinical.

Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions start long before someone steps through your front door. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and plant a few seasonal blooms for a burst of color. Repainting or replacing the front door can also create a welcoming focal point that instantly elevates your home’s exterior. Little tweaks to landscaping and exterior décor can work wonders. A fresh welcome mat and a few potted plants are small touches that signal a well-cared-for home.

Upgrade the Kitchen’s Charm

The kitchen is the heart of any home. Small updates — think new cabinet hardware, a modern backsplash, or freshly polished countertops — can make a major difference. Even swapping out an old faucet for a sleek pull-down style can make the whole kitchen feel more inviting. Buyers want to see a space where they’ll want to cook, gather, and linger. Show them that your kitchen is ready for their first family dinner or next Sunday brunch.

Revamp Your Bathroom’s Style

Bathrooms don’t need to be gutted to make an impact. Replace a tired vanity with something fresh and modern, swap out dated mirrors for streamlined ones, and add plush new towels in soothing colors. A few small changes can transform a drab bathroom into a serene spa-like retreat. Buyers will notice these details and see your home as a place to relax and recharge.

Check That the Water Heater is in Prime Shape

Ensuring your water heater is running smoothly before putting your home on the market can save you from costly surprises down the line. A water heater’s efficiency and condition can directly impact a home’s energy costs, and buyers pay close attention to utility performance when making decisions. A quick inspection and a bit of maintenance can make all the difference. Whether you need to do routine maintenance or unexpected repairs, be sure you’re using reliable replacement parts from trusted brands (click here for more info).

Create Flexible Spaces for Today’s Buyers

Flexibility is a major draw in today’s market. Whether you turn that forgotten nook into a home office or stage a spare room as a cozy reading corner, you’re showing buyers the versatility of your space. It’s about painting a picture of possibility. Buyers crave spaces that can grow with them and meet their evolving needs — whether that’s working from home, hosting guests, or finding a quiet spot to unwind.

Deep Clean and Declutter Like a Pro

While it may seem like common sense, a spotless home speaks volumes. Polish those floors, scrub the grout, and get rid of any lingering pet odors. Clutter can be a huge turnoff, so pack away personal knickknacks and family photos. You’re not erasing the memories you’ve made here — you’re simply creating a blank slate for the next owner to imagine their future.

Partner With an Expert to Seal the Deal

No matter how many home improvement projects you tackle, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. An experienced professional knows how to price your home right, market it effectively, and handle every detail to ensure a smooth process. A trusted agent understands what local buyers are looking for and can provide invaluable guidance every step of the way. When you have someone who knows the ropes in your corner, selling your home becomes less of a chore and more of an exciting new chapter.

Ultimately, it’s not just about making cosmetic tweaks — it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels like home to someone else. Buyers want to step inside and feel an instant connection. By putting in the work to enhance your home’s appeal, you’re helping them envision their own future there. And when they can picture their life in your space, that’s when the magic happens. Selling your home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming ordeal. With the right improvements and a trusted real estate partner by your side, you’ll be well on your way to putting that “Sold” sign up in no time.

MORE RESOURCES:

https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/real-estate/g64148020/paint-colors-that-boost-real-estate-home-value/

https://www.extraspace.com/blog/moving/home-remodeling-ideas-best-ways-to-increase-home-value/

https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/landscaping-and-hardscaping/instant-curb-appeal-for-less-than-100-dollars-pictures

https://curbio.com/spaces/kitchen-updates/makeover-on-budget-cost-roi-refresh/

https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/bathroom-renovation-advice

https://www.supplyhouse.com/Water-Heater-Parts-26631000

Real Estate • Uncategorized • June 4, 2025

Citrus County Ridge Area Homes Sales First 2025

by Linda Thomas

Fast-rising mortgage rates have led to the slowest existing home-sales market nationally in 30 years. But National Association of REALTORS® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun tells NAR members attending the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings: There are plenty of reasons to believe that, when rates drop, the demand will be there

According to Florida Realtors Association and Zillow report: Buyers want remodeled homes…

Sellers are encouraged to showcase home renovations as buyers are

increasingly seeking turnkey homes. Buyers are willing to pay more for

remodeled homes.

NEW YORK — Even as home prices keep going up and properties

become less affordable, homebuyers are willing to pay more to own a

remodeled home, according to Zillow.

Nationwide, buyers pay roughly $13,200 more than expected — about

4% of the median price — for renovated homes, researchers at Zillow

found.

full article: Buyers Want Remodeled Homes | Florida Realtors

Ridge area Citrus County First half of 2025:

Citrus Hills

( all) 177 for sale …Here is the pricing of the most expensive 50 listings:

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010651S43272

sold/pended 2025 (188) :

Here is the pricing of the most expensive 50 listings:

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010667b70500

Black Diamond

for sale (12)

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010657K92667

sold/pended 2025 (36) :

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010660v13246

Pine Ridge

for sale (13)

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010658X91255

sold/pended 2025: (92)

Here is the pricing of the most expensive 50 listings:

https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010662C26295

Hurricane Prep • May 27, 2025

Citrus County Hurricane info 2025

by Linda Thomas

Hurricane season starts June 1 and typically peaks in early September, according to federal data. Time to get supplies ready and the home ready. I took most of this info from the Bay News 9 website.

Predictions:

- NOAA predicts above normal activity this hurricane season
- The forecast calls for 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and 3 to 5 major hurricanes
- Relatively warm Atlantic and likely absence of El Niño is the reason for this years forecast

https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/weather/2025/05/19/2025-noaa-hurricane-season-forecast

The 2025 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday is scheduled for May 15–31.

During this period, you can purchase a variety of hurricane preparedness items tax-free, such as:

Flashlights and lanterns
Batteries
Radios
Tarps
Coolers
Portable power banks
Generators
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Carbon monoxide detectors

This information is based on reports from early May 2025. However, it’s worth noting that there was some uncertainty surrounding the tax holidays due to budget negotiations. You might want to confirm with the Florida Department of Revenue for the most up-to-date information closer to the date.

Five things about hurricanes you may not know…

What You Need To Know

Winds are not the deadliest part of a hurricane
Size doesn’t mean all when it comes to a hurricane
The right-front quadrant of a hurricane is often the strongest

full article: https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/weather/2020/08/20/five-things-you-might-not-know-about-hurricanes

Emergency officials suggest starting early by taking inventory of what you have and what you need for the coming season. Households should have at least seven days’ worth of food and water per family member, including pets. You should also keep at least 30 days of prescription medication on hand.

First aid kits, dust masks and portable power banks are also highly suggested, according to the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s checklist.

Here’s a list of all the basics:

Supply Kit Checklist

Flashlights and extra bulbs
Battery-operated radio
Battery-operated lanterns
Extra batteries (various sizes)
Wind-up or battery-powered clock
Matches
First aid kit
Duct tape
Rain gear
Plastic garbage bags
Fire extinguisher
Scissors
Can opener
Clean clothes
Extra blankets and pillows
Heavy gloves
Food
- Bottled water (one gallon/person/day)
- Two coolers (one for drinks, one for food)
- Canned foods
- Bottled juice
- Dry pet food

Checklist for Securing Your Home

Remove outdoor items
Trim dead branches from trees
Install shutters or board up windows
Fill gas tanks and extra containers
Withdraw extra cash
Move furniture away from windows
Store important documents and valuables in waterproof containers

CITRUS Evacuation Zones:

https://cms5.revize.com/revize/citrus/divisions/bureau%20support%20operations/EM/evacuation-zones.pdf

Service Location

3549 Saunders Way
Lecanto, FL 34461
United States

352.746.6555

URL

https://www.sheriffcitrus.org/how_do_i/contact_us/emergency_management_phone_nu…

This site offers a list of shelters during emergency situations. It is for the residents of Citrus County. Anyone who is considered special needs and will need to be transported to a shelter can register ahead of time. Please see the website for more information.

For this blog, I re-include a repost from previous blog and Facebook.

Facebook post: Elaborate details:

1. Charge any device that provides light. Laptops, tablets, cameras, video cameras, and old phones. Old cell phones can still used for dialing 911. Charge external battery back ups.
2. Wash all trash cans, big and small, and fill with water for flushing toilets. Line outdoor trash cans with trash bags, fill with water and store in the garage. Add bleach to sterilize.
3. Fill every tub and sink with water. Cover sinks with Saran Wrap to keep it from collecting dust. Fill washing machine and leave lid up to store water.
4. Fill old empty water bottles and other containers with water and keep near sinks for washing hands.
5. Fill every Tupperware with water and store in freezer. These will help keep food cold longer and serve as a back up water supply.
6. Fill drinking cups with water and cover with Saran Wrap. Store as many as possible in fridge. The rest you can store on the counter and use first before any water bottles are opened. Ice is impossible to find after the storm.
7. Reserve fridge space for storing tap water and keep the sealed water bottles on the counter.
8. Cook any meats in advance and other perishable foods. You can freeze cooked food. Hard boil eggs for snacks for first day without power.
9. Be well hydrated before the storm hits and avoid salty foods that make you dehydrated.
10. Wash all dirty clothes and bed sheets. Anything dirty will smell without the A/C, you may need the items, and with no A/C, you’ll be sweating a lot. You’re going to want clean sheets.
11. Toss out any expiring food, clean cat litter boxes, empty all trash cans in the house, including bathrooms. Remove anything that will cause an odor when the A/C is off. If you don’t have a trash day pickup before the storm, find a dumpster.
12. Bring in any yard decor, secure anything that will fly around, secure gates, bring in hoses, potted plants, etc. Bring in patio furniture and grills.
13. Clean your environment so you have clear, easy escape routes. Even if that means temporarily moving furniture to one area.
14. Scrub all bathrooms so you are starting with a clean odor free environment. Store water filled trash cans next to each toilet for flushing.
15. Place everything you own that is important and necessary in a backpack or small file box that is easy to grab. Include your wallet with ID, phone, hand sanitizer, snacks, etc. Get plastic sleeves for important documents.
16. Make sure you have cash on hand.
17. Stock up on pet food and fill up bowls of water for pets.
18. Refill any medications. Most insurance companies allow for 2 emergency refills per year.
19. Fill your propane tanks. You can heat soup cans, boil water, make coffee, and other stuff besides just grilling meat. Get an extra, if possible.
20. Drop your A/C in advance and lower temperatures in your fridges.
21. Gather all candles, flashlights, lighters, matches, batteries, and other items and keep them accessible.
22. Clean all counters in advance. Start with a clean surface. Buy Clorox Wipes for cleaning when there is no power. Mop your floors and vacuum. If power is out for 10 days, you’ll have to live in the mess you started with.
23. Pick your emergency safe place such as a closet under the stairs. Store the items you’ll need in that location for the brunt of the storm. Make a hand fan for when the power is out.
24. Shower just before the storm is scheduled to hit.
25. Keep baby wipes next to each toilet. Don’t flush them. It’s not the time to risk clogging your toilet!
26. Run your dishwasher, don’t risk having dirty smelly dishes and you need every container for water! Remember you’ll need clean water for brushing your teeth, washing yourself, and cleaning your hands.
27. Put a small suitcase in your car in case you decide to evacuate. Also put at least one jug of water in your car. It will still be there if you don’t evacuate! You don’t need to store all water in the house. Remember to pack for pets as well.
28. Check on all family members, set up emergency back up plans, and check on elderly neighbors.
29. Remember, pets are family too. Take them with you!
30. Before the storm, unplug all electronics. There will be power surges during and after the storm.
31. Gas up your car and have a spare gas container for your generator or your car when you run out.

If you can, take a video of your house and contents….walk room to room–open cabinets/drawers and closets. This will help if you need to make a claim later. It will show proof of items and help you list all the items (help your memory, so you don’t forget anything)…I highly recommend!!!

I also heard you should freeze a cup of water, place a coin on top after it is frozen…keep this in your freezer to help you gauge the temperature if the power goes out. If the coin stays on top, the food is staying frozen. If the coin falls into the water, the freezer thawed out and most food will likely need to be thrown away. This is super helpful is you have to leave and come back, as it may appear everything is still frozen, but if the coin is in the cup–you will know!

Finally, anything that you want to try and preserve, but you can’t take with you—place it in a plastic bin and put in your dishwasher, lock the door—this should make it water tight in case of any water intrusion into your home. But of course, take all the important/irreplaceable items you can!!

Stay Safe everyone!

Restaurants • May 24, 2025

Citrus County May Restaurant Update

by Linda Thomas

We tend to eat dinners out twice a week and maybe a carryout also. Lots of good meals this last few weeks…

Dinners:

Wallace’s at the Greenhouse (Homosassa)

Delicious entrees: Swordfish, grilled mahi fish and chips, salmon, parmesan cod, grilled sandwich and corn chowder . Unique menu and good food and service.

Katch 22 (Lecanto)

Two good trips there for dinners… my choice for my upcoming birthday dinner:

Crab cakes, split the beet salad, lobster scallop ravioli, shrimp tempura, red snapper, French onion soup and crème brûlée

Blackwater Grill (Yankeetown)

Some of the best food around and Wednesday Date NIGHT: With two entrees orders receive an appetizer and dessert! Black grouper fixed Mediterranean style, Baby back ribs (too saucy) cole slaw enough for 4; Mashed potatoes enough for 4; steak fries, Shrimp cooked “Pamela style” which includes corned bread and shrimp. YUM and good service.

Seafood Seller (Crystal River)

Consistently good food and service. Lightly battered Fried shrimp, Mussels, Mahi, Grouper, Grouper sandwich and Frog legs.

Prime 88 (Brooksville)

Art’s choice for his birthday. I had Filet (although I sent mine back not cooked medium) . Art orders his ribeye Pittsburg medium rare…charred in outside and medium rare on inside.Crème brûlée … yum

: Pittsburg style

Bayside Kraft Kitchen (Crystal River) Nice setting on the water..but very noisy on Friday nights! Food and service is excellent. Delicious, moist pork chop, good seabass ($50+); Shrimp crab cake is good, Caesar salad good, tasty corn carb chowder, bbq shrimp appetizer good, root salad with chicken good, fall off the bones ribs… finished our parties’ dinner choices.

Pizza

Little Caesar (Lecanto); Brothers Pizza (Crystal River) both deliver.

Marianna Stinky Rose Hernando

Sell a lot of pizza. Karen says caprese salad the best around. Also had pasta pomadora. Brought most of my lasagne home. Art brought some of his spaghetti and meatballs. Mike had Caesar salad and Italian sub ( also bright half of sandwich home. They take reservations.

Lunches

Lollygaggers Floral City… good sandwich and service

Jimmy T’s NY Deli Hernando… our fav place for lunch: chicken soup, turkey club

New England Cafe Beverly Hills tuna melt

Cattledog Roasters Inverness (also in Crystal River) pecan cranberry chicken salad,

Pine Street Pub Inverness dry rub wings

Black Diamond Ranch Chicken salad, Lobster bisque… lobster roll …quesadillas back!

Real Estate • May 16, 2025

This and That For Your Home/Who to Call ” list

by Linda Thomas

This and That for your house…

Keeping your house in its best shape…paint colors? countertops? granite, butcher block or quartz? The twelve remodeling projects that bring value to a resale. I updated “Who to Call for Services” list.

What the NAR says to remodel and the estimated return based on upfront cost:

New steel front door: 100% (estimated return based on upfront cost)
Closet renovation: 83%
New fiberglass front door: 80% New vinyl windows: 74%
New wood windows: 71%
Basement conversion to living area: 71% Attic conversion to living area: 67% Complete kitchen renovation: 60% Minor kitchen upgrade: 60% Bathroom addition: 56%
New primary suite: 54%
Bathroom renovation: 50%

link to full article:12 Remodeling Projects That Offer the Best Value at Resale

What paint colors are okay?

Neutral colors don’t always have to be your go-to in home staging. Sherwin-Williams color trend-setters offer a reason to expand

your color palette.

link to full NAR article: A Dark Secret in Real Estate … About Paint, That Is

Counters: What to Choose

Kitchens are busy hubs, so choosing a countertop – quartz, granite, laminate or butcher block – depends on budget, style and maintenance needs.

link to full FAR article:What to Know About Kitchen Countertops | Florida Realtors

WHO TO CALL FOR SERVICES LIST:

PRINTABLE PDF: who to call 2025

Real Estate • May 10, 2025

Retirement to Renovation: Seniors Turning Fixer-Uppers into Fortunes

by Linda Thomas

From my guest blogger…

Retirement to Renovation: Seniors Turning Fixer-Uppers into Fortunes

Image via Pexels

Retirement doesn’t have to signal a slowdown. For many older adults, it’s the start of an entirely new chapter—one driven by autonomy, fulfillment, and, yes, profit. Enter the world of house flipping: an industry long dominated by younger, HGTV-fueled enthusiasts, but increasingly drawing in seniors looking to blend income with creativity. With years of life experience, financial discipline, and more flexibility in their schedules, seniors are uniquely positioned to thrive in this high-reward real estate game—if they approach it with the right strategies.

Experience Is an Underrated Asset

There’s a depth of wisdom that comes from decades of decision-making, and it can be a game-changer in real estate. Seniors tend to avoid impulsive buying, and in a market where timing and negotiation are everything, that patience becomes a serious advantage. They’ve seen economic swings and housing trends come and go, giving them an intuitive edge when it comes to recognizing undervalued properties. Plus, many already own homes and may have experience with renovations or home maintenance. Those life skills translate directly into the ability to assess properties realistically and plan upgrades that make sense.

Build Smarts Alongside Structures

Flipping houses doesn’t mean leaving learning behind—especially when going back to school can sharpen your edge. With coursework in accounting, business, communications, and management, you can learn skills that can help your business thrive in a competitive market. Online degree programs make it easy to manage your real estate work while going to school at the same time, giving you flexibility without sacrificing momentum. For those exploring long-term business degree career opportunities, formal education offers both practical tools and professional credibility that can elevate your flipping venture from a side project to a serious enterprise.

Partner for Strength, Not Speed

House flipping doesn’t have to be a solo act. In fact, for older adults, working with a reliable partner can be essential. Whether that’s a family member with complementary skills, a real estate-savvy friend, or even a younger investor looking for mentorship, these collaborations provide both energy and balance. Seniors bring strategic thinking and access to capital, while partners can handle physically demanding tasks or digital operations like social media marketing. The goal isn’t to move fast—it’s to move wisely, with support structures that make the whole venture more sustainable.

Understand the Numbers Like a Banker

This isn’t a hobby—it’s a business. Successful flippers live and breathe numbers, and seniors who want to succeed need to do the same. Knowing the after-repair value (ARV), estimating costs conservatively, and understanding market comps are all essential. But perhaps the most overlooked element is time: every week a home sits unsold, carrying costs eat into profits. Seniors often have more time to monitor projects closely and can spot budget creep or delays faster than someone juggling a full-time job. That vigilance can keep profits from slipping through the cracks.

Use Retirement Funds with Intention

One often overlooked benefit older adults have is access to retirement accounts that can be leveraged for investment. Self-directed IRAs, for example, allow property investments without incurring early withdrawal penalties. But the key is using these funds strategically—not gambling them away. A conservative, single-property investment with well-researched upside can be a smart way to test the waters without overcommitting. It’s not about flipping ten houses in a year. It’s about making one or two meaningful investments that can supplement retirement income and create long-term wealth.

Keep the Stress Low and the Satisfaction High

Unlike younger flippers trying to build empires overnight, older adults can afford to be more selective and deliberate. That slower pace allows for better decision-making and often better results. Flipping should feel exciting, not exhausting. Seniors should give themselves permission to say no to high-risk properties and avoid overly complex renovations. Working with a trusted agent who understands the goals of the project—and who isn’t pushing volume over value—can also help make the process more enjoyable. The satisfaction of seeing a once-neglected house become someone’s home is often just as fulfilling as the check at the end.

The real payoff in house flipping isn’t just in the dollars earned—it’s in the stories created. Many seniors enter the business not just for extra income but to leave something behind: a skill passed on to a grandchild, a contribution to a neighborhood’s revitalization, or simply the joy of having built something tangible in a season of life when that’s often overlooked. The combination of practical wisdom and a renewed sense of purpose makes seniors ideal candidates for flipping homes with both profit and principle. And in a market that’s always chasing the next trend, it’s this kind of grounded approach that can truly stand the test of time.

Real Estate • May 4, 2025

Spring 2025 Real Estate Update May 2025

by Linda Thomas

According to the National Association of Realtors…Home buyers this spring are locking in lower mortgage rates than they could a year ago, when rates pushed above 7%. But even with the latest decline—bringing 30-year fixed rates to a 6.76% average—many prospective buyers aren’t ready to take action.

full article: Mortgage Rates Ease Slightly- Is It Enough to Grow Spring Sales?

Black Diamond:

to date: sold/pending: https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010017k44959

2024= 17 closed

BD for sale: https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010018p61225

Pine Ridge:

sold/pending: sold TO DATE: 78

PR: for sale https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010019V26254

Citrus Hills Gated:

CITRUS HILLS (gated): 171 sold to date

for sale: https://portal.onehome.com/en-US/share/1010020E77698

TO DO • Uncategorized • April 25, 2025

Heading to Summer in FL…What to do…

by Linda Thomas

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, the Sugar Sand Festival on Clearwater Beach is awesome! It’ll take you about an hour to go view all the exhibits (it is under a tent) and then maybe you want to spend the rest of the day at the beach… and/or the Clearwater Aquarium is assume too! We had lunch at Crabby’s(on the 3rd floor).. awesome view of the area and good food. Frenchy’s is also recommended as a dining establishment.

And this week I give you some ideas on what to expect around Citrus County in the summertime. Some of the dates have not been updated yet but if you’re interested in them, I do provide a website, even though the websites are not quite up-to-date for 2025.

Black Diamond Reese NORRIS will perform at the Homosassa Distillery on Friday, May 2 from 5:30 to 8:30 PM

Sugar Sand Festival…(only some of the pics I took)

Crystal River:

https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACoqOf7M5Npdyj4hTrd9FZfPbsiLl&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5azABhD1ARIsAA0WFUGuqptXVq3SS44utZaB0_rmvGSnbapbSrpNMbIKhEoIWPBa5yZw1ywaAoOlEALw_wcB

June

Homosassa River Fireworks Fest & Poker Run
An all-day poker run on the Homosassa River followed by a brilliant fireworks display make for a day of outdoor fun for the entire family! https://www.floridacrackerriversideresort.com/

July

Inverness Patriotic Evening
Celebrate the 4th of July in Inverness with a stunning fireworks display over Lake Henderson and live music.

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/550/Patriotic-Evening

4th of July Celebration
Crystal River’s annual 4th of July celebration takes place at Kings Bay Park and includes a parade, fireworks, live entertainment, food, beer, and wine – and more! https://www.crystalriverfl.org/special/page/special-events

August

Pine Street Jam & Parrothead Party
Calling all Jimmy Buffet fans! This parrot-themed downtown street party in Inverness features live music, food vendors;

https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/directory/pine-street-jam-parrothead-party-august/

TBD:

??? Ozello Arts, Crafts, & Blue Crab Festival 9- 4pm
A tradition celebrating all things arts, crafts, and blue crab. Enjoy food, drinks, locally made goods, and lots of delicious blue crab delicacies.

??? Ozello Craft Show & Chili Cookoff
Who will win the annual chili cook off? This family-friendly event features a craft show and lots of delicious chili to sample.

Home Maintenance • Real Estate • March 28, 2025

Getting Ready to Sell Your Home?

by Linda Thomas

Get the Facts

Consumer Guide: NAR: Preparing to Sell Your Home

NOTE: Consumer guides do not constitute any change in NAR policy. Real estate professionals must ensure they market properties consistent with relevant MLS rules and educate sellers on the choices available.

Once you decide to sell your home, you might have questions about how to prepare it for listing and viewing by potential buyers. An agent who is a REALTOR® can guide you through this process. Here are some common considerations as you prepare your home to sell:

How do I find the right agent to sell my home?

You should feel empowered to find and work with the agent who is the best fit for your needs. To guide this process, NAR has a dedicated resource with questions to consider when selecting a seller’s agent. When you work with an agent who is a REALTOR®, you are working with a professional guided by ethical duties under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, including the pledge to protect and promote the interests of their clients.

Do I need to have my home inspected before putting it up for sale?

No, a pre-sale inspection is not required. However, an inspection can be used to identify potential issues in your home that you can consider repairing before showing your home to potential buyers and use as a differentiator for your property. If you choose to conduct a pre-sale inspection, an inspector will assess your home’s condition, including its structure, exterior, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, interiors, ventilation / insulation, and fireplaces. It may also include tests for problems that can affect human health like mold, radon gas, lead paint, and asbestos. Sometimes buyers may also conduct their own inspection as a contingency in their purchase agreement. If you uncover possible issues that may appear during a buyer’s inspection, you will have time to make any necessary changes that could impact your home’s asking price. You should also talk to your agent about disclosure requirements in your state if a pre-sale inspection uncovers an issue.

What should I do if something in my home needs to be fixed or replaced soon?

If something in your home requires a significant repair—such as a roof, a system such as HVAC, or an appliance like a dishwasher or washer / dryer—you should determine how much the repair will cost, even if you do not plan to fix it before selling the home. These estimates will help sellers determine the costs that buyers might take into consideration when negotiating a purchase agreement.

Am I required to make any cosmetic updates to my home before putting it up for sale?

No, but you may want to clean the windows, carpets, lighting fixtures, and walls, and store away clutter before showing your home to potential buyers. Sellers may also look for ways to improve “curb appeal”—how the home looks to a potential buyer when viewed from the street—by updating aspects such as landscaping, the front entrance, and paint jobs. These steps may help improve the home’s appearance in photos, which can play an important role in attracting potential buyers.

Do I need to provide information about appliances that will stay in the home after it’s sold?

You should locate warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer / dryer, dishwasher, and any other appliances or systems that will stay in the house with a new buyer. It is recommended that you find these items now to avoid any lost paperwork causing an issue with a potential buyer when you reach the time of finalizing, or “closing,” the transaction.

What does it mean to stage my home?

Staging is the process of cleaning a home and temporarily filling it with furniture and decorations that may help buyers better see themselves living in the home. While it is not required, some sellers may work with a stager to focus on certain key areas of their home that are important to buyers. Some agents may also include staging in the services they provide you.

Practices may vary based on state and local law. Consult your real estate professional and/or an attorney for details about state law where you are purchasing a home. Please visit facts.realtor for more information and resources.Washington, D.C. 20001-2020

NEED HELP GETTING YOUR HOME READY/

here is an updated who to to call list (Printable)

wh to call 2025

Home Maintenance • Real Estate • March 15, 2025

Home Remodeling

by Linda Thomas

Spring is in the air, time for planting, remodeling… Here are some ideas on homes and their need to be updated to sell for a good price.

Sellers are encouraged to showcase home renovations as buyers are increasingly seeking turnkey homes. Buyers are willing to pay more for remodeled homes.

NEW YORK — Even as home prices keep going up and properties become less affordable, homebuyers are willing to pay more to own a remodeled home, according to Zillow.

Nationwide, buyers pay roughly $13,200 more than expected — about 4% of the median price — for renovated homes, researchers at Zillow found.

In the company’s analysis last year, buyers were willing to pay less than 1% more.

“Buyers looking for a turnkey home should be prepared for increased competition from other buyers,” Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, said in a statement. “For sellers, if you have made renovations, flaunt them in your listing description.”

Zillow analyzed 359 key words in the listings of more than 2 million homes that hit the market in 2024. Of those key words, the term remodeled more than any other spurred buyers to pay more.

Listings on Zillow with this key word are more often saved and shared. Almost 30% of Zillow’s listings for homes for sale are described as renovated, which the company attributes to a pandemic-era boom in renovations.

Before the pandemic, the company found that home listings that included such terms as fixer, TLC, needs work or good bones saw more demand and were more likely to sell.

Now, across the country, a home listing that uses the term fixer-upper sells for about 7% less than expected — the largest discount in three years, according to Zillow. And home listings with the terms needs work or TLC sell for about 8% less.

link to full article:Buyers Want Remodeled Homes | Florida Realtors

If you are thinking of remodeling…do some research and/or contact an interior decorator

Here is an article with remodeling ideas that includes: natural stone countertops, layers of color, well-made furniture, brass fixtures, etc.

link: 9 Home Designs That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Designers

Here are the worse colors to have in your home, if you are trying to sell…

The most off-putting interior colors for home buyers in 2025

Lime green: 73% Bold pink: 42%
Red: 35%
Purple: 33%
Bold orange: 30% Mustard yellow: 20%

full article: The Worst Home Colors for Selling in 2025 | Florida Realtors

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Spring 2025 Real Estate Update May 2025

Heading to Summer in FL…What to do…

Getting Ready to Sell Your Home?

Home Remodeling

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