Author Archives: Jake Mannick
Get Rid of Unwelcome Critters
Most people have heard that annoying sound – a mouse running through the wall or in the rafters of the garage. Often these problems can be solved quickly by luring them out and plugging the openings they entered through. But what if unwanted animals are in your chimney? With the colder weather, an evening by... Read More
How to Use Comps to Price Your Home Correctly
The most important aspect of listing your home for sale is the asking price. Unlike many other items we purchase, home prices are based on what a willing and able buyer would pay for the property. Sounds complicated, right? This is why real estate agents bring comps ( short for comparable properties) information with them... Read More
Small Changes That Make Any Room Cozier
In previous decades, a warm, cozy home required dark colors and heavy materials. One can envision sitting in front of a roaring fire in a dark room filled with pillows and wood paneling. Contemporary homes are brighter, with clean lines and light colors and textures. The challenge is how to create an inviting, cozy space... Read More
Overall Market Update – 5 Realities for Sellers Now
Over the past few years, most of the US has been in a strong seller’s market. Historically, low-interest rates coupled with rising incomes resulted in buyers who were ready and able to buy a new home. It was a crazy time when sellers needed to do little more than put a sign in the yard... Read More
Tips for Buying Land for a Tiny or Prefab Home
Prefabricated homes have become very popular in recent years as more and more people look for creative ways to build their home environment. These homes can take the form of a tiny house, manufactured home, or Airstream. The demand for vacant land has increased exponentially over the past few years. Yet, finding the right piece... Read More
Should I Move For My Job?
The question of moving for a new job is not uncommon. In the past few years, more and more companies are moving their entire operations out of high-tax states to those more business-friendly. Possible work-from-home options further complicate the decision to move with your company. So, should you move when your company does? Things to... Read More
Is My House Up to Code?
Building codes change over time and for people who have owned their homes for a long time, they may not know if their home is out of code and if so, does it matter. Building codes and violations from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and focus on issues that can affect the safety of the dwelling and... Read More
Can My HOA Make Me Get Rid of My Dog?
Most homebuyers know to review the HOA (Homeowner’s Association) documents provided by the seller during disclosures to ensure the rules will not interfere with their lifestyle. Yet, once they become homeowners, often these same people do not pay attention to bylaw changes over the years. So, when they find themselves in violation of a bylaw,... Read More
6 Features of a Kitchen Remodel That Are a Waste of Money
Kitchen remodels are always popular. The pandemic has increased home improvement projects even more as people embrace the idea of staying home more. While it’s easy to find inspiration for these kitchen remodels, there are great ways to save money and still create a beautiful, welcoming space. 6 Kitchen Remodel Features That Are a Waste... Read More
6 DIY Home Projects That Could Kill Your Home Value
Weekend TV lineups are filled with Do-It-Yourself home improvement programs. One home inspector used to call the results “six-pack projects.” While not all DIY projects end in disaster, some projects can harm home sales because buyers see these “improvements” as changes they will need to make once they buy the house. If you are planning... Read More