Our Consulting Services

If you are a seller or a homeowner, you must have found yourself doing a lot with many appointments and whatnot. Now look around. You might have neglected the upkeep of your home and landscaping. For this, our consulting team will help you with this problem. Consulting about your home is exactly just what you need.

Our Consulting Team provides you with all of your needs, from deep cleaning to landscaping services. Exactly, we specialize in providing consulting services to get your home in tip-top shape. From deep cleaning to landscaping services, let us help make your house a home again!

Contact us today for consulting services @Shea Preferred Realty Group

Spring into Action: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Guidance

To sell your home this spring, it may need more preparation than it would have a year or two ago. Today’s housing market has a different feel. There are more homes for sale than there were at this time last year, but inventory is still historically low. So, if a house has been sitting on the market for a while, that’s a sign it may not be hitting the mark for potential buyers. But here’s the thing. Right now, homes that are updated and priced at market value are still selling fast.

Today, homes with curb appeal that are presented well are still selling quickly, and sometimes over asking price. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com: “In a market where costs are still high and buyers can be a little choosier, it makes sense they’re going to really zero in on the homes that are the most appealing.” With the spring buying season just around the corner, now’s the time to start getting your house ready to sell. And the best way to determine where to spend your time and money is to work with a trusted real estate agent who can help you understand which improvements are most valuable in your local market.

Curb Appeal Wins

One way to prioritize updates that could bring a good return on your investment is to find smaller projects you can do yourself. Little updates that boost your curb appeal usually work well. Investopedia puts it this way: “Curb-appeal projects make the property look good as soon as prospective buyers arrive. While these projects may not add a considerable amount of monetary value, they will help your home sell faster—and you can do a lot of the work yourself to save money and time.”

Small cosmetic updates, like refreshing some paint and power washing the exterior of your home, create a great first impression for buyers and help it stand out. Work with a real estate professional to find the low-cost projects you can tackle around your house that will appeal to buyers in your area.

Not All Updates Are Created Equal

When deciding what you need to do to your house before selling it, remember you’re making these repairs and updates for someone else. Prioritize projects that will help you sell faster or for more money over things that appeal to you as a homeowner. The 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights popular home improvements and what sort of return they bring for the investment (see graph below): Remember to lean on your trusted real estate advisor for the best advice on the updates you should invest in. They’ll know what local buyers are looking for and have the latest insights of what your house needs to sell quickly this spring.

Bottom Line

As we approach the spring season, now’s the time to get your house ready to sell. Let’s connect today so you can find out which updates make the most sense.

Top 5 Interior Trends for 2023

Each New Year ushers in a variety of new trends, from fashion to technology to interior design. Whether you’re looking for ways to spruce up your current home before selling it or you’re starting to plan the style of a new home, the upcoming trends forecasted by designers can provide some inspiration.

Here are 5 of the top interior design trends you can expect to be seeing in 2023:

  1. Calming colors. When it comes to paint colors, wallpaper, and décor, homeowners are increasingly preferring warm, neutral hues that evoke a sense of calm and coziness. Colors commonly found in nature—such as muted browns and greens—are always a safe choice, but shades that are deeper yet still earthy (like mustard yellows, the popular accent color Ultramarine blue, or Pantone’s color of the year for 2023, Viva Magenta) are finding their place as well.
  2. Statement rugs. To complement a more neutral color palette, designers are seeing homeowners opt for statement rugs that are both functional and decorative. With bold colors and patterns, these rugs can essentially serve as “floor art.”
  3. Gold accents. Reflecting the theme of warm over cool tones, gold and brassy fixtures—including lighting, faucets, and cabinet or drawer pulls—will continue to be popular, while brushed nickel has fallen out of favor.
  4. High-gloss wood finishes. From floors to cabinets, matte wood finishes are being swapped out for high-gloss, which brings a polished, eye-catching look to any room.
  5. Biophilic design. While this trend is not exactly new, designers expect to continue seeing homeowners seek ways to bring elements of the natural world into their homes. This often manifests in the use of natural, organic materials, such as bamboo, cork, and wood, as well as decorative objects with freeform shapes. Incorporating these items can add warmth and texture to any interior design.

 

Sources: good housekeeping & house beautiful

A Home Project With The Highest ROI

One of the most common questions we get asked is… “Where should I spend my money on a remodel? Where will I get the most bang for my buck?”

The answer: The kitchen! The average recoup on a kitchen upgrade is 98.5%! However, that doesn’t mean you have to do a full renovation (unless you want to – then by all means, chase your kitchen dreams)! 

If you’re upgrading to sell, then try a mini-remodel. Here are some options to heat things up and give your kitchen some massive flavor:

  • Paint it! This might not seem like a major change but it will be the biggest bang for your buck. You know the feeling when you come out of the salon after getting your hair done – you feel like a new person! That’s how your kitchen will feel. Don’t be afraid to take the paint to the cabinets if they need a refresh. Painting them will be much more cost effective than ordering new ones.
  • You can also add a splash of style with a new backsplash. Whether you have drywall as your backdrop or outdated tile, refreshing this space with something modern will make a huge difference. Go for something timeless vs. trendy. Especially if you’re planning to sell in the next 5 years!
  • Give your kitchen an appliance upgrade! Appliances are like accessories… They can add a lot of style even though they’re not the star of the show. And don’t forget the wine fridge! Not only will this make your kitchen THE place to entertain, you can’t beat the look of a fully stocked wine fridge for a kitchen accessory.
  • LIGHTING! It’s so, so important to have well lit interiors (we’re talking to you sellers). You’ve heard us say it before… Bring in the light!  Buyers love light. A quick upgrade to your kitchen light fixtures can be just the refresh you need. 

We hope you found this information helpful!  If you are considering buying or selling a home, we would love to talk with you. Or if you need a referral to a contractor to help you update your kitchen, shoot us a message or give us a call at 480-677-8170!

A Few Simple Ways To Give Your Primary Bedroom A Refresh!

Whether you’re looking for some good staging tips to prep your home for sale or if you are simply interested in giving your primary bedroom a refresh, this topic is for you!

#1: ADD SOME FLOOR TO CEILING CURTAIN PANELS

Even if your windows aren’t floor to ceiling, it will help add height to your room and make the ceiling seem taller!  Opt for neutral colors or patterns unless your room needs a splash of color! 

#2: ADD WHITE OR NEUTRAL LINENS TO GIVE YOUR ROOM A CLEAN, CRISP LOOK

A white duvet cover, a cozy ivory throw at the end of the bed and white towels in the master bath will give the room a luxurious feel. 

#3 : ACCESSORIZE WITH PILLOWS 

Accent these with a few different size throw pillows.

Don’t be afraid of different shapes, patterns and textures when it comes to throw pillows. This is another easy way to add in a pop of color! 

#4: BRING IN SOME GREENERY

Fresh flowers or some greenery stems in a pretty vase on the nightstand will add a pretty touch.

Add a taller plant next to a floor length mirror or in a lonely corner to bring the outdoors in.

#5: UPGRADE YOUR LIGHTING

Lighting is key to staging any room to look more put together. Invest in updated lamps for dressers and light fixtures on the ceiling. A chandelier gives a romantic, upscale feel.

Keep in mind that symmetry isn’t necessary. You can always put a reading lamp on one side of the bed and a table lamp on the other side.

#6: REMOVE CLUTTER

Do you have jewelry laying out on the dresser and other things starting to pile up? I know I’m guilty of this.  Find a home for all the “stuff”.

#7: GIVE YOUR WALLS A REFRESH

Try to stick to neutral wall colors for the bedroom so that it feels like a peaceful space. Leave the bright colors for the accessories and opt for crisp whites and lush ivories when it comes to paint.

Balance out the room with a darker statement wall if you love the idea of breaking up the white. This is also a good space to consider trying out a modern wallpaper pattern.

Remember – you never want everything to be completely white to the point where the room looks cold and uninviting!

We hope you find these tips helpful!  Feel free to share with your family and friends who may be able to benefit from this information!

3 Quick Tips To Keep Your Home In Tip-Top Shape!

  1. Here comes the heat, all winter visitors should shut off the AC, right? Not so fast. Wood products, cabinets, door trim, doors, etc. can all have big time issues above 85-90 degrees and added humidity. Allowing the AC to run at a reasonable temperature will reduce expansion and contraction. These homes are built extremely well. Without the doors and windows being opened on a regular basis, the AC will barely run during the extreme hot months.
  2. Did you know the average dryer needs 250 CFM’s, that’s 250 cubic feet of air per minute to properly dry your clothes? Keeping those dryer vents clean and doors open during operations will cut down on drying time and cut energy costs. Many homes have a jump duct specifically designed for this required fresh air but often it’s not enough.
  3. Have stucco cracks? All home inspectors ask for these to be sealed and painted. Doing so without painting the entire home will cause a zebra appearance. The stucco walls are designed for moisture and a weep screed is installed by the builder to help eliminate moisture. These cracks are 99% of the time normal hairline cracks and should be of no concern.

Have any questions about these tips? Contact our team at 480-677-8170!

Small Changes To Make Your Home Feel Brand New

Have you heard of the “1% better every day” concept?

What if you applied a similar concept to your house? Every day, do something to make it 1% better (even if some days that means folding the laundry right when it comes out of the dryer – is anyone else guilty of not doing this?)

Here are 8 small changes to make to your house to make it feel new!

  1. Replace cabinet hardware – This is such a game changer for your kitchen and bathroom aesthetics!
  2. Add a statement mirror – We love the floor length arch-shaped mirror trend!
  3. Invest in new window treatments – Pro tip: hang them higher than the windows go to create the feeling of higher ceilings.
  4. Update light fixtures – Start with the entryway and work your way through the home to see what other spaces might be in need of a little glow up.
  5. Add a new plant (to every room) – Plant life is trending in interior design and brings so much life into a space!
  6. Add an area rug that fits your space for an updated look!
  7. Replace light bulbs – Get all matching bulbs and brighten things up.
  8. Upgrade your linens – You deserve to sleep in luxury! Just remember to go neutral, especially if you’re thinking about selling this year!

Which one does your home need the most?

3 Ways To Make The Most Money When Selling Your Home

Follow these 3 steps to make the most money when selling your home!

STEP 1: BE PREPARED – A PREPARED SELLER IS A SUCCESSFUL SELLER

  • The first step to getting prepared to sell your home is to find a Real Estate Agent who you like and trust to work with. You will want to find someone who knows how to market using current strategies. Your agent will be your best resource in creating your plan to prepare your house for sale.

STEP 2: CLEANING, DECLUTTERING AND ORGANIZING

  • If you want to make the most money from your home sale, you’ll want to make sure your house looks its best. Now is the time to do a deep clean – wash windows, power wash your deck and patio, wipe down all of your cabinets, trim, doors, etc. Make it look as move in ready and taken care of as possible.
  • It’s also time to “Marie Kondo” your house to show how much space you have instead of how much stuff you have. Our closet trick is to take out half of what is in your closets and put it into storage bins (or get rid of it!)…then neatly hang or fold the rest!
  • If your home needs a LOT of organizing, consider hiring a professional organizer to get it in shape!

STEP 3: PRE-LISTING HOME PREP & REPAIRS 

  • It’s important to be prepared for the Home Inspection upfront and take care of any deferred maintenance ahead of time.
  • Let’s face it, we all have a few things that need to be done in our home that we have been putting off.  Now’s the time to stop procrastinating and just take care of it. 

Do you want more information on how to make the most money when selling your home? Comment below on this blog post or give us a call at 480-677-8170!

Preferred Landscape Vendor | Blooming Vista Landscape and Design LLC

There’s nothing quite like a beautifully done landscape job at a home, and Blooming Vista is one of the best landscape and design companies BY FAR! We’ve had the privilege of working with them for over 12 years and could not recommend anyone better.

Founded in 2000 by Sean Alexander, Blooming Vista has grown to be a trusted name in Pool and Landscape design and installation. With over 20 years of experience, their team possesses the skills and expertise to bring your outdoor dreams to life.

Blooming Vista specializes in custom residential projects and they take pride in each step of the process. From the initial meeting with their highly skilled pool and landscape designers, to the beautiful AutoCAD designs,  to the completion of your outdoor project; you will be impressed with their dedication to you, their client.

Their quality of workmanship shines through in all of their designs and projects. If you can envision it, they can build it! From customer appreciation days, hosting golf events, and sending flowers when life brings unexpected challenges, they always treat their clients like family. Blooming Vista has a wonderful team of dedicated employees, most of them have been with the company since the beginning!

Blooming Vista has done over 900 homes in the Encanterra Community, and in every single one of those projects, they have completely transformed and elevated the look of the properties. 

Here’s a look at the services they provide:

  • They specialize in custom residential projects
    • Pools and spas
    • Water and fire features
    • BBQ’s
    • Pergolas
  • Plan and Design
    • The pool and landscape designers will come to you and start the process of bringing your dream landscape to life!
    • The AutoCAD designs will then turn your dream into reality!
  • Installation
    • Once designs are loved and approved by involved parties, they will handle all aspects of installation from start to finish.
  • Blooming Vista provides the following warranties:
    • 2 Years Hardscape
    • 1 Year Irrigation 
    • 3 Years Pool Equipment
    • 4 Months Plants and Trees

 

BEFORE

AFTER

As you can see from the before and after photos above, these specific homes in Encanterra don’t even look the same after Blooming Vista put their hands on them!

Do they look like your kind of landscaping company? Here’s their contact information, and let them know we sent you!

Pool Maintenance + Air Conditioning Quick Tips

Pool Maintenance + Air Conditioning Quick Tips – Get Ahead Before It Gets Too Hot!

 

Pool Maintenance Quick Tips

Tip #1 – Brush the steps and walls on a weekly basis, especially during the summer!

Tip #2 – Have your water tested weekly for proper chemical balances.

Tip #3 – Service your filter per manufacturer’s recommendations and clean out skimmer baskets.

Tip #4 – Check with your local municipality for pool safety requirements.

 

Air Conditioning Quick Tips

Tip #1 – Without routine maintenance, a normal air conditioning unit loses approximately 5% of efficiency each year.

Tip #2 – Maintain a 3 foot clearance around the A/C unit for proper air flow.

Tip #3 – Filters are critical to the proper and economical operation of the air conditioning unit. They should be changed or cleaned monthly.

Tip #4 – Contrary to popular belief, all A/C registers should remain open regardless of whether you are using the rooms or not.

 

 

Ben Leeson and TJ Kelley

Arizona Experience Realty Group Resale Broker for the SHEA Preferred Program

480-677-8170

Info@ENCBrokers.com

 

36460 N Encanterra Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85140