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The bathroom is one of the most popular rooms of the house to renovate. But, you don’t have to overhaul it to make it sparkle like new. Below are five tips to enhance the appearance of your bathroom without undertaking an expensive and intensive remodel. Forward this information on to family and friends who are looking to update their bathrooms.
During the home shopping process, one of the biggest complaints I receive from Client is how awkward open houses can be. Between walking into someone’s house (and sometimes someone’s life), and helicopter-like hovering agents, it can be intimidating, awkward, and uncomfortable. Here is a quick tip that can make the process a little easier…
[section_title heading=”h1″ style=”1″ text_align=”center”]Take Cards with You (if Possible): [/section_title]
While the intent of an open house is to market the home, the Listing Agent is always on the lookout for potential clients. You’ll often hear questions like, “Do you have an agent?” or fill in a similar question on the sign-in sheet. These questions are meant to inquire if you already have an established relationship with another Agent, and signals whether the Listing Agent should pursue your business.
To mitigate this initial anxiety, ask your Agent for a few business cards to hand to the Listing Agents at Open House. This is a clear signal to the Listing Agent that you already have an agency relationship, and they should start telling you about the property. Plus, as a bonus, most Agents will not require you to sign-in if you give them an Agent’s business card!
If you don’t have an Agent already, then either prepare a good answer to the question or create a “Buyer Card.” An example of a good answer would be: “No, we’re just casually browsing right now and aren’t ready for Agent representation yet.” If they’re persistent, they may push further but most good Agents should understand your intentions and move on.
[section_title heading=”h1″ style=”1″ text_align=”center”]What is a Buyer Card?[/section_title]
Much like a business card, this is a simple card with all your relevant information. List pertinent details about yourself (at least name and email), and ways you would like the Agent can get in contact with you. Using the following template, you can quickly print multiple disposable Buyer Cards at home or one reusable one to carry around.
A Buyer card gives you a quick and easy way to give the information the Listing Agent needs, and avoid awkwardly filling out sign-in sheets.
With Thanksgiving finished, and the Christmas season officially here, we are in full swing for the holidays! For those who are at any stage of the home buying process, the holidays present a unique set of challenges to the real estate market. Here are 5 tips to help you survive the holidays and put yourself in the best situation to succeed! [Read more…] about 5 Tips for Holiday Home Buyers
Roses are red, violets are blue, the hardest decision, is deciding what to do! Valentine’s Day is upon us, and many wonder what to do on this day of love?! Here are 14 ideas to help you decide what to do on Valentine’s Day in Honolulu!
[section_title heading=”h2″]1. Hike[/section_title]
Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, it’s a great opportunity to go outside and play. If you’re looking at something easier, but don’t mind the crowds, Diamond Head is always a quick and easy one. My favorite hike is Hanauma Bay because it’s fairly quick and offers a seldom-seen view.
[section_title heading=”h2″]2. Breakfast[/section_title]
Before you head out on the trail (or after, depending on your wakeup schedule), hit up one of the island’s great breakfast places. My favorite is the Original Pancake House on Kapiolani, but there are numerous offerings around the island. Since it’s a holiday weekend, prepare for some lines or go early!
[section_title heading=”h2″]3. Waikiki Staycation[/section_title]
If you’re looking for a multi-day celebration, it’s always a good idea to head into Waikiki and book a room for the night. Between the nightlife and restaurants, you’ll appreciate not having to drive home after a great night on the town!
[section_title heading=”h2″]4. Beach Day[/section_title]
Again, because this is a weekend, nothing would be better than heading out to the beach and enjoying a great day in the water. This idea is great for families or groups of people, and is free! I recommend taking a bento or takeout from a place like Zippys, filling a jug of water, and wearing plenty of sunscreen! The island has plenty of great beaches on all sides, so go out and enjoy the sun!
[section_title heading=”h2″]5. Restaurants[/section_title]
The last one, and probably most obvious, is booking a restaurant reservation for the evening. A really good tip, if you don’t mind dining with others, is getting a group of friends together and booking a large group! Most restaurants are packed with couples taking up the two-top tables, so take advantage of their open large tables and have a great night with friends!
With the Punahou Carnival coming up this weekend, there are a lot of preparations happening on campus and around the Makiki neighborhood. As a 25+ year veteran of the Carnival, I have decided to share my top 5 best tips for maximizing your fun and enjoying everything! [Read more…] about 5 Tips for Maximum Fun at Punahou Carnival
First and foremost, this post is assuming a couple things. One, that you know what online shopping is, since you are reading a blog and using a computer…with your hands. And two, that you’ve heard of Amazon.com, because internets. If these assumptions are incorrect, please turn around now and find your nearest grand-kid to teach you…haha!
Personally, 2014 has been quite an adventure, with trips around the world and changes galore! Unlike me, the internet’s perennial constant, Amazon.com, has once again asked me to subscribe to Prime membership for 2015! Was it worth it? [Read more…] about My Year on Amazon Prime! Was it Worth it?!