March 2013

Is There Finally a Light At the End of the Tunnel?

Over the past few years, the pendulum of home sales has swung far in the direction of higher inventory and falling prices. And while this was a favorable scenario for buyers who were able to secure financing, it hasnâ€™t done much for the bigger picture.

"Gotta have it" Home Staging

Imagine walking into a store. An attractive display catches your eye. You ooh and aah over the clever layout, the attractive design. Then you realize, you've gotta have it. It must be yours.

Career Goals...Met! Homes...Sold!

Whether you're just starting out in the workforce or searching for a change of pace in your career, real estate could be the ideal industry for you. Here at Coldwell Banker SSK, Realtors, we'd love to have you on our team. Our experienced agents will be glad to help you settle into your new job, and help you reach your career goals.

Is Selling Your Home Your New Year's Resolution?

2013 has arrived, and if selling your home is one of your New Year's resolutions, now is the time to make sure your house is in excellent condition. There are two words to remember that should become your mantra during the house-selling period, "curb appeal". If the unkept exterior of your house causes potential buyers to keep on driving, it doesn't matter if you've just remodeled your master bath with the latest amenities, or replaced the flooring throughout your home. You won't get the chance to show off the beautiful interior. Read More

Let's make a deal...

What's on your holiday wish list? If all you want for Christmas is a good deal on a new home, you may get your wish. Contrary to popular belief, winter is the perfect time to find a great bargain. Many people take a break from house hunting during the holiday season, so you don't have to worry about competition. Plus, due to the lack of interest, sellers are eager to close when given the opportunity. Read More

October 2012

Save Money This Winter with Energy-Saving Home Improvement Tips

Did you know that washing your home's windows can offer money-saving benefits? When your windows are clean, it allows you to see any areas that may need re-caulking. While you are checking your windows to make sure they are properly sealed, look at your entry doors and see if you can detect any cracks. Read More

Put safety first to ensure that Halloween really IS a treat!

It's almost that time of year: the time when pint-sized ghosts and goblins take to the streets in search of candy. Halloween can be fun for both children and adults. But it's important to put safety first, so everyone can have a great time. Read More

Presenting the Perfect "Real Estate" Package

Have you ever received a gift so elegantly wrapped that it just made the occasion seem that much more special? Beautiful bows and curled ribbons fell flawlessly from the top of the box to the bottom, and the wrapping paper matched the trimmings perfectly. It almost made you hesitant to open such a lovely present. Almost... Likewise, if you're planning to sell your residence, you should take steps to ensure that the package on display is attractive both inside and out. Read More

August 2012

Five Advantages of Using A Coldwell Banker Agent

Whether you're a first time homebuyer, or you're reentering the market for a new home, it's nice to know that you can rely on your Coldwell Banker Agent for more than listings and home tours. It's our mission to help you navigate the ever-changing world of real estate. Read More

Advice For Your Next Garage Sale

Long weekends, such as Labor Day, are great times for yard sales. Most people think that yard sales are as easy as putting all of their 'junk' that has been collecting dust in the attic, basement, or garage - on tables in the front yard â€“ and simply putting up a cardboard sign near a major roadway. However; there are many ways you can easily and affordably make the most money for your old belongings while clearing room in your home. Read More

Get "Schooled" on your home-buying decision

There are many factors to consider when moving to a new area and choosing a home, such as how safe the neighborhood is or how far of a commute will it be to get to your job. But one of the biggest factors for families is the educational opportunities your child will have within your district. And even if you don't have children yet, it is possible that the people who buy or rent your house in the future will. Schools play a major role in any home-buying decision, and a school's reputation can even affect your home's value. So, what can you do to prepare yourself for a move, and choose a district that's right for you and your future investment?

Baby, it's hot outside.

Most of us look forward to the end of cold, dreary days and welcome warm sunny weather. Unfortunately, with the soaring temperatures in Macon, Warner Robins, and Milledgeville come high energy costs. If you are one of the many homeowners who has resigned to spending more money and sweating it out for the rest of the summer, listen up. With just a few simple actions, you can lower your energy bills and keep cool...really.

Cool Tips for Your Hot Summer Move

The task of moving alone can be an overwhelming job, but moving in the summer heat can present an even bigger challenge. Throughout the country we are experiencing record-breaking temperatures that can lead to heat-related illnesses. There's no reason to let the summer heat get the best of you. By planning in advance and taking a few extra precautions, you can enjoy a stress-free move.

How do we love home ownership? Let us count the ways...

To rent or to buy: that is the question for many people. On one hand, renting offers quite a few advantages. For example, you don't have to commit to staying in one place for the long haul. Someone else handles maintenance and yard work. And of course, you don't have to pay homeowner's insurance or property taxes. Many have chosen to rent for these very reasons. But for others, the benefits of home ownership are much more attractive.

The Stage is Set...for a Sale?

If you've ever been house hunting, then you have probably meandered through a home or two with thoughts like: "What were they thinking when they painted the walls THIS color?" While it is true that paint can be changed, floors can be refinished, and new carpet can be installed once you move in, that first glimpse of a home can really have an impact on prospective buyers. That's why home staging is so important for the seller. The good news is that preparing your home for sale doesn't have to be hard on your wallet.

Reverse Mortgage: A Path You Want to Take?

Perhaps you've heard of reverse mortgages, and you've maybe even thought about applying for one. Before you do, we'd like to share some valuable information with you.

If you have time to mutter, you have time to declutter...

Do you ever look around your house and wonder how you accumulated so much stuff? Perhaps you moved into a larger home several years ago, marveling at how much space you had...only to find that the space filled up quickly. Hey, it happens to the best of us. Chances are, your house is no more cluttered than your neighbor's; and chances are also that it's not as bad as the ones you see on the television shows about packrats! Still, most of us feel better when our surroundings are organized.

Coldwell Banker SSK, Realtors Earns Prestigious President's Award Of Honor

(Macon, Georgia) - Coldwell Banker SSK, Realtors has been awarded the prestigious Coldwell Banker® President's Award of Honor, a distinction achieved by only 39 of the Coldwell Banker independently owned and operated affiliate companies throughout North America, according to Marilyn Cheney, Chief Operating Officer and Broker. This designation is given to companies who attained closed adjusted gross commission income of $4,250,000 - $7,499,999.99 during the 2011 calendar year.

Are you SOLD on the Idea of Spring Cleaning?

Warm weather and sunny skies are beckoning homeowners everywhere. It's the perfect season for maintaining the curb appeal of your home, and for taking care of those other little projects that can help keep your house in great shape.

Landscaping: a simple way to boost your real estate's value

If you've had your home up for sale for some time now, and haven't received many calls for interested parties on your home, there could be a very simple reason why. How does your house look on the outside? If you know your residence looks great, it may not be your house at all. It could just be the landscaping around your home.

Considering a Mortgage?

Spring has arrived in Middle Georgia, and now's the perfect time to buy a home. Wondering where to begin to get pre-approved for financing? Coldwell Banker, SSK, Realtors, recommends PHH Mortgage. According to 2010 statistics from Inside Mortgage Finance, PHH Mortgage is one of the top five originators of retail residential mortgages in America. Sherry Gay and Karen Camarota will be glad to help you navigate through the process and explain all the options that are available to you.

Now is the Time to Prepare for a Career in Real Estate

If you could predict the future, how would you prepare? Would you like to be trained and skilled in a career that would be in high demand? The good news is that, to a certain extent, it is possible to see what the future holds, and right now, signs are pointing toward an upcoming housing boom right here in Georgia. The downturn that took place in the housing market over the last few years has also lead to a decrease in licensed realtors. Now that the market is poised to rebound, this is the time to get into Real Estate.

Love Your Home Year-Round!

Owning a home can be very fulfilling. However, homes need regular maintenance to keep their charm and stability. A 12-month program for your house can help you improve it step-by-step throughout the year.

Investing in Your Future with Coldwell Banker SSK, Realtors

Many people are postponing the purchase of a new home because they're not sure if they'll still have the same job in the same town a few years down the road. Not to mention, selling houses nowadays can take some time. However, with home prices at their lowest in years, now is a perfect time to invest in a new house. If you do have to move, you have the option of renting out your home, which makes buying a great investment opportunity. Coldwell Banker SSK, Realtors would love to assist you in this exciting endeavor.

How One "Pet" Project Continues to Inspire

For more than two decades, Mallory Jones has been hard at work as an associate broker for Coldwell Banker SSK Realtors. His work ethic and resolve to deliver exceptional customer service have made him a recognized name in the community, and a trusted source for the real estate needs of many Middle Georgians. He also plans to run for District 3 County Commissioner in the upcoming election. Did we mention that his kindness has also made Mallory an inspiration to others in our area?

Tax Savings for Homeowners

Tax filing is an important time for new homeowners or long time homeowners who have bought a new home in the past year. Often times a taxpayer is well served to obtain professional assistance in the initial filing year after they acquire their new home. Three items immediately come to mind when reviewing the tax advantages of Home Ownership:

Make Your New Year's Resolution Count Towards Your Home's Value!

This time of year, it's not uncommon to hear a lot about resolutions. Whether the goals are personal, professional, or financial, it's important to have the right tools to succeed. When it comes to increasing your home's value, all it takes is some improvements to get you there, and it's a financially-smart investment.

'Tis the Season for Giving

We've all heard the phrase, "the gift that keeps on giving." This holiday season, we'd like to share a unique gift idea that truly exemplifies this concept.

Giving Back to the Community

Donna Bass, Coldwell Banker Agent in the Macon, Georgia office, moved to Macon a little over a year and has always enjoyed giving back to her community. So when an opportunity came up that was near and dear to her heart (housing), she jumped in with both feet. Donna is the Project Manager for The Grace House renovation, a home that was donated to LOTS, an organization where she volunteers.

Home For The Holidays, As A Renter

There's nothing as charming as a home decorated for the holidays, but if you're not ready to commit to home ownership, renting is the next best option. More and more Americans are making the choice to rent.

Challenges Facing Today's Home Buyers

Have you been trying to buy a home and have been facing a number of challenges? You are not alone. The 30-year fixed rates at or below 4 percent would seem to have the real estate industry booming. However, that is not the case. Unreasonable requirements and regulations born from the sub-prime mortgage crisis are causing many qualified buyers, as well as sellers, lenders, and Realtors unjustified headaches. The culprit?

Number One Real Estate Company in Middle Georgia

When Sheridan, Solomon and Kernaghan began in 1975, the internet was unheard of. SSK founders, Peter Solomon, Val Sheridan, and Gene Kernaghan understood that building personal and professional relationships took time, effort and care.

Casualty Loss

Mother Nature can cause devastating damage to property owners, and she can strike at any time. As a homeowner, are you aware that this is considered a casualty loss, and that it can be deducted from your taxes?

Is Real Estate Investing Right for You?

It's no secret that we are in a buyer's market as far as real estate is concerned. With a downturn in home sales, those in the market to buy have a distinct advantage, so do those with an interest in investing in real estate.