Organize and Update Your Garage Without Spending a Fortune

If a complete garage remodel isn’t in the picture this year, you can still spruce up your space with some of these easy, budget-friendly ideas to organize and update your garage.

 

Storage
Sporting equipment, tools, lawn care, and snow removal, automotive… there’s no shortage of stuff to store in the average garage. Use as much vertical space as possible. Wall shelves, hanging hooks, cabinets, and peg boards. You can even hang shelves and hooks from the ceiling.

Build your own or purchase from an array of garage-friendly designs intended to hold supplies, tools, or plastic totes. Consider rolling or pull-out shelves to maximize space and specialized storage for specialized gear – like bicycles and your collection of fishing poles. Whatever you choose, ensure it’s strong, durable, and easy to use.

Workspace
Without a space to work, any amount of storage feels inconvenient. You can repurpose an old desk or table or build a workspace into a wall of cabinets or shelves. Keep your most used tools nearby and handy. The backdrop of a workbench is a great place for a pegboard or a sheet metal magnet board.

Power and Light
Adding outlets around your garage, especially near the workstation, will make anything you plan to do easier. Ensure you have enough overhead light as well as task lights over any workspaces, and the garage is an ideal place for motion-activated lights.

Floors
A nice epoxy coating on the floor protects from cracks, grease, and stains and looks great. A layer of rubberized interlocking floor tiles can add visual appeal. But a good cleaning and patching can do wonders as well.

Insulation
Insulation on the walls and the overhead doors can keep your garage cooler in the summers and warmer in the winters – a great investment if you spend a lot of time in your garage year-round.

Just for Fun
And lastly, don’t be shy about adding some personality to your garage. This is a great space for a bright, fun paint color on the walls and eclectic wall art. The way you display your tools in neat rows or arrange your kayaks on the wall can impact the feel of your space as well. There’s no reason not to have a little fun in the garage.

Top Challenges You’ll Face as FSBO

Selling your house on your own, also known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO), might seem like a way to save money. However, the process is fraught with challenges that can make it more complicated and stressful than anticipated. Here’s why teaming up with a real estate agent can help you navigate these hurdles and ensure a smoother sale.

1. Setting a Competitive Price

One of the most significant challenges FSBO sellers face is setting the right price. Without a deep understanding of the local market, you might underprice or overprice your home. Underpricing means leaving money on the table, while overpricing can lead to your property sitting unsold for extended periods. A real estate agent has access to comprehensive market data and can set a competitive price that attracts buyers and maximizes your profit.

2. Managing Legal Documents

The paperwork involved in selling a home is extensive and can be overwhelming. FSBO sellers must navigate contracts, disclosures, and other legal documents on their own. Mistakes or omissions can lead to delays, legal issues, and even the potential loss of the sale. An experienced real estate agent handles all the documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance with local regulations, reducing your risk significantly.

3. Effective Marketing and Exposure

Marketing a home effectively requires more than just listing it on a few websites. FSBO sellers often lack the resources to reach a wide audience. Real estate agents, on the other hand, use professional photography, virtual tours, and multiple listing services (MLS) to showcase your property to a broad audience. Their established networks and marketing expertise increase your home’s visibility, attracting more potential buyers.

4. Handling Negotiations

Negotiating with buyers can be one of the most daunting aspects of selling a home. FSBO sellers must manage offers, counteroffers, and contingencies on their own, which can be stressful and time-consuming. A real estate agent brings negotiation skills and experience to the table, ensuring you get the best possible terms and price for your property.

5. Coordinating Showings and Inspections

Organizing showings, inspections, and appraisals requires significant time and effort. FSBO sellers must be available to coordinate and accommodate buyers’ schedules, which can be particularly challenging if you have other commitments. A real estate agent manages these tasks, streamlining the process and making it more convenient for you and potential buyers.

6. Navigating Potential Pitfalls

The home-selling process is full of potential pitfalls, from pricing and paperwork errors to negotiation breakdowns and marketing missteps. FSBO sellers often lack the experience to foresee and avoid these issues, leading to delays and lost opportunities. A real estate agent’s expertise helps you navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring a smoother, more successful sale.

The Bottom Line: Why Teaming Up with an Agent is the Smart Choice

While selling your home on your own might seem like a cost-saving measure, the challenges and risks involved can outweigh the benefits. Partnering with a real estate agent brings invaluable expertise, resources, and support to the table, making the process more efficient and less stressful.

Ready to Overcome FSBO Challenges?

If you’re considering selling your house on your own, think again. Teaming up with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you overcome the challenges of FSBO and ensure a successful, profitable sale.

DM us today to get started and experience the benefits of having a professional by your side! @SHEA PREFERRED REALTY GROUP

 

Home Maintenance Tips for Monsoon

 

With monsoon season officially starting in just two weeks, it’s time to make sure your home is prepped for the downpours. Here are 3 key steps to take:

1. Clear Drainage: Clean gutters, downspouts & drains to prevent water backup & foundation damage.

2. Secure Outdoors: Secure furniture, decorations & tools that could become hazards in strong winds. Bring in potted plants.

3. Tame Landscaping! Trim branches & consider drought-resistant plants to minimize debris & erosion.

Be storm-ready & enjoy a worry-free monsoon season!

What is the Vacation Watch Program?

The Vacation Watch Program is a service provided by the Queen Creek Police Department. When you notify them of your vacation, they will perform extra patrols around your property to ensure everything is secure. It’s a simple yet effective way to safeguard your home while you’re enjoying your time away.

 

 

How to Request a Vacation Watch

Requesting a Vacation Watch is easy. You can either:

  1. Fill out the Vacation Watch form on their official website: Queen Creek Police Department Vacation Watch Program
  2. Call (480) 358-3535, option 2, to complete a request over the phone.

Important Guidelines

Before you request a Vacation Watch, please note the following guidelines:

  • Duration: The program is not intended for periods longer than four weeks. If you plan to be away for more than four weeks, you need to re-submit your Vacation Watch request at the end of each four-week period.
  • Homes for Sale: The program does not cover homes that are for sale.

Additional Safety Measures

While the Vacation Watch Program offers great support, it’s essential to take additional steps to secure your home. Here are some suggested safety measures from QCPD:

  1. Notify a Friend or Neighbor: Inform a trusted friend, relative, or neighbor about your absence. Leave emergency contact numbers with them in case they need to reach you.
  2. Lock Everything: Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are securely locked before you leave.
  3. Use Security Systems: Engage your alarm and camera systems for extra security.
  4. Secure Your Garage: Manually lock your garage door from the inside and disengage the electronic opener.
  5. Manage Deliveries: Stop your mail and other deliveries or arrange for someone to collect them daily.
  6. Automate Your Home: Use timers or smart home systems to control indoor lights, TV, or radios to give the appearance that someone is home.
  7. Lawn Care: Arrange for someone to take care of your lawn and landscaping to avoid any signs of neglect.

Taking these extra precautions along with utilizing the Vacation Watch Program can significantly reduce the risks while you’re away. The Queen Creek Police Department is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its residents, and their Vacation Watch Program is a testament to that commitment.

For more information and to request a Vacation Watch, visit their official website or call (480) 358-3535, option 2.

Have a safe and wonderful trip, knowing that your home is being watched over by your community’s dedicated police force! Need help filling out the form? Contact us @ SHEA PREFERRED REALTY GROUP

Outdoor Projects Can Boost Curb Appeal When You Sell

Some Highlights

  • In real estate, a good first impression is key. If the outside of a house looks welcoming, more people will want to come in and see it.
  • Your agent helps you by giving advice on what you may want to prioritize, finding easy fixes that make a big difference, knowing what buyers in your area like, and showing off your updates in your listing.
  • Let’s connect so you have expert advice on what’ll have the biggest impact in our area. 

What’s Coming in Queen Creek Shopping Center?

 

Hey Queen Creek enthusiasts! We’ve got some thrilling news to share – the final tenants for phase 1 of the Vineyard Towne Center have been revealed, and it’s shaping up to be a bustling hub of shopping and dining!

 

 

Meet the New Additions: McDonald’s, Zaxby’s Restaurant, and Better Buzz Coffee!

Vestar, the powerhouse behind this development, recently announced that iconic brands like McDonald’s, Zaxby’s Restaurant, and Better Buzz Coffee are set to occupy the remaining outparcels in the first phase. This adds to the already impressive lineup that includes Sprouts Farmers Market, Pacific Dental Services, European Wax Center, Zara Nail Bar, Chunk Cookies, Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop, and Nekter Juice Bar.

A Mix of Shops, Services, and Restaurants

With a grand total of 260,000 square feet over two phases, Vineyard Towne Center is on a mission to become the heart of Queen Creek, offering a diverse mix of shops, services, and restaurants. The first phase has seen a wave of exciting openings, from Chunk Cookies to Nekter Juice Bar.

What’s Next? Exciting Spring Openings!

Hold onto your hats – spring will usher in another wave of retailers! Keep an eye out for Keep It Cut Hair Salon, MOD Pizza, Over Easy, Academy Bank, Crown One Beauty Supply, and more. The shopping spree doesn’t end there – Ono Hawaiian BBQ and Mountain America Credit Union are set to open their doors in the fall.

Phase 2 and Beyond: Target Takes Center Stage

As if that’s not enough, Vestar dropped a bombshell about Phase 2 construction, including the highly anticipated anchor tenant – Target! Construction kicks off in the fall, with doors expected to swing open in late 2025. Brace yourselves for additional Phase 2 tenant announcements in the coming months!

Queen Creek, Get Ready for Retail Brilliance!

Jeff Axtell, Executive Vice President of Development for Vestar, couldn’t be more thrilled: “This milestone reinforces our dedication to bringing a premium shopping experience to the Queen Creek community.”

And that’s not all! Vestar has its fingers in several other exciting projects around the valley, promising a retail revolution in places like Buckeye, Laveen, and Peoria.

Excitement is building, Queen Creek! Stay tuned for more updates as Vineyard Towne Center evolves into your go-to destination for shopping, dining, and community vibes. #QueenCreekBuzz #VineyardTowneCenter #RetailRevolution

Moving to Arizona? We would love to help you! Message us at @Shea Preferred Realty 

SOURCE: Vestar , Queen Creek Independent

Exciting My Trilogy Life Upcoming Events 2024!

 

Are you ready to kick off the New Year with a bang? #MyTrilogyLife has curated a spectacular lineup of events to ensure your 2024 starts on a high note. From karaoke nights to scenic mountain trips, there’s something for everyone in Encanterra! If you’re not currently living in Encanterra but know someone, contact them and you may join these events as a guest!

 

Now let’s dive into the details of these exciting upcoming events!

1. Karaoke Night Extravaganza

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Thu, Jan 4, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Mallorca Events Center

Do you have a passion for singing or just enjoy soaking in the musical vibes? Join #MyTrilogyLife community for a complimentary Karaoke Night! Here’s what you can expect:

  • 5:30 pm: Doors and cash bar open
  • 6:00 pm: Karaoke begins
  • 8:00 pm: Event concludes

No pressure to sing – registering means you plan to attend. Sign-ups for singing will happen at the event. Fun karaoke facts await you, such as its origin in Kobe, Japan, and the most requested songs worldwide.

For more information, here’s the event link: Karaoke Night Extravaganza

 

 

2. National Bird Day with a Guided Bird Walk

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Fri, Jan 5, 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
  • Location: Riparian Preserve | Gilbert

Embark on a bird lover’s adventure this National Bird Day! Join Arizona Birding Tours for a guided walk at the Riparian Preserve, followed by a delightful breakfast at Rise Up Bakery. Remember to bring your own transportation.

Ticket Prices: Member – $30.00

Reserve your spot today! Limited spaces available. For tickets & registration, here’s the event link: National Bird Day

 

 

3. Wine Blowout Sale Extravaganza

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Mon, Jan 8, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Location: La Cocina

Indulge in a wine lover’s paradise at My Trilogy Life’s Wine Blowout Sale. Explore and shop a fantastic selection of wines collected throughout the year. Doors open at 4:00 pm – don’t miss out!

 

 

4. Wellness Workshop for a Healthier You

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Tue, Jan 9, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
  • Location: Mallorca Events Center Room A

Make 2024 your healthiest year yet! Join Dr. Noel Abood and Dan LeMoine for a complimentary wellness workshop discussing weight loss and holistic health. Limited space available – reserve your spot now!

Can’t attend? Register for a recorded replay of the live coaching session. For registration, here’s the event link: Wellness Workshop

 

 

5. Flannels and Frost Fun Day in Flagstaff

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Wed, Jan 10, 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Location: Flagstaff, Arizona

Escape to Flagstaff for a frosty day filled with fun! Enjoy a scenic gondola ride, delicious lunch, and pie at Rock Springs Café. Dress warmly and get ready for a memorable day.

Ticket Prices: Members and Guests – $150.00

Secure your spot for this off-site adventure! For tickets & registration, here’s the event link: Flannels & Frost Fun Day

 

6) Swing Memories Big Band Dance Night

Event Details:

  • Date and Time: Fri, Jan 12, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Mallorca Events Center

Put on your dancing shoes and join My Trilogy Life for a night of music with The Swing Memories Big Band. A 16-piece band playing a variety of styles – it’s a night you won’t want to miss!

Ticket Prices: Members and Guests (Non-Refundable) – $16.34

For tickets & registration, here’s the event link: Big Band Dance Night

 

For more upcoming events, visit #MyTrilogyLife official website here. Let’s make 2024 an unforgettable year!

Source: #MyTrilogyLife

 
 
 

 

Designing Your Dream Home: Why Thinking About the Next Buyer Matters

Buying a home is a major milestone in anyone’s life. It’s a sign of accomplishment and a place to create lifelong memories. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that someday you will have to sell your home. With that in mind, it’s crucial to make smart design choices and think about what the next buyer may or may not like.

We’ve all heard the saying, “They’re gonna have to carry me out of this home in a box,” meaning that someone plans to live in their home until they pass away. While this sentiment may seem comforting, it’s important to consider the future when making design decisions.

Imagine you’re backing up to a busy road or a massive power line. Do you think the next buyer will be pleased with the location? Or maybe you love the color lime green and decide to install lime green flooring everywhere in the home. While it may be your dream home, it may not appeal to everyone.

As a result, it’s critical to make smart design choices and think about the next buyer. It’s not just about creating a home that meets your current needs; it’s also about creating a home that can appeal to potential buyers in the future.

While it’s essential to buy your dream home and live in it for as long as you want, it’s equally important to think about the future when making design choices. Remember that everything you buy will eventually be sold, and making smart decisions now can pay off in the long run. So, work with a team of experts and keep the next buyer in mind when making design decisions for your home.

Contact us now! Shea Preferred Realty Group

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!

 

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