Susan Terry
About Susan Terry
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PREPARING TO SHOW WITH KIDS IN TOW
You don’t want to “kid around” when it comes to preparing your home for showings.
When your home’s on the market, getting ready for showings can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, but it’s even harder when you share your home with little ones.
The trick to selling a family home is to make it appeal to buyers who have children as well as those who don’t. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home to show with kids in tow:
Curb Appeal
Don’t leave toys, sidewalk chalk or bikes strewn outside your home as drive-by viewings can occur when you least expect it.
Depersonalize
Buyers should be able to imagine themselves living in your home, so clear the kids’ artwork off the fridge and take down photos, awards and mementos.
Play Time’s Over
Keep one box of toys on hand and pack up the rest as having too many toys lying around looks messy and can make your rooms appear smaller.
Clean Your Room!
Go through your kids’ rooms and pair down stuffed animals, trophies and toys. Any remaining items should be neatly placed up on shelves.
Behind Closed Doors
Buyers can never get enough closet space so get rid of any clothing items that your kids have outgrown or that are out of season.
Time to Grow Up
Buyers should be able to visualize your playroom as their rec room so get rid of any “kid clutter” so it’ll look large enough for their pool table.
Ready, Set, Go
Have a diaper bag that’s ready with everything you need in case you have to make a quick getaway for a last-minute showing.
Preparing your home for sale is a great opportunity to cut down on clutter and by doing it now, you’ll have less to pack when it comes time to move!
Showings can occur on short notice so make sure you have a system in place that enables you to vacate your home quickly.
Keeping a home perfectly staged with little ones running around can be a challenge, but it’ll be well worth it in the end!
NATIONAL RESCUE DOG DAY
There are so many pets in the Grey Bruce area that need a good home.
For all you dog lovers out there, May 20th marks National Rescue Dog Day which was created to help raise awareness about the huge number of dogs who are currently waiting in shelters for a new place to call home.
Thankfully, the Grey Bruce Animal Shelter has been working tirelessly to rescue and care for animals that have been abandoned, abused or neglected.
They’re extremely overwhelmed and under-resourced though due to the increasing number of animals in need of help, so it’s important that we offer our support.
Helping is easy! For example, consider donating some of your old towels and blankets. They’re also in constant need of pet food, cleaning supplies, grooming tools, leashes, chew toys and, of course, treats!
Having a loyal pet by your side is a great way to fetch joy and chase away loneliness but if you’re unable to take on a dog full-time, there are a variety of volunteer opportunities such as fostering or dog walking.
If you already share your home with a rescue dog, remember to share a pic of your pup on May 20th with the hashtag #nationalrescuedogday, along with a short story of how you and your dog have changed each other’s lives.
This National Rescue Dog Day, unleash some love and loyalty by adopting, donating or volunteering to help turn a tail of woe into a tale of wagging joy!
GREY BRUCE REAL ESTATE UPDATE – April 2024
Please don’t hesitate to reach out for detailed stats that are specific to your neighbourhood, or even if you’re just curious about what the place down the road sold for – it’d be great to hear from you!
A BARREL OF FUN IN GREY BRUCE
Earth Day is the perfect time to pick up a rain barrel, or two!
On Monday, April 22nd, Earth Day will be celebrated around the world!
Earth Day is the perfect time to pick up a rain barrel so that you can start collecting naturally pure rainwater to use in your garden. Here are some of the many advantages of having a rain barrel:
Watered Down
Rainwater can be used for watering plants which will reduce your water bills.
Right As Rain
Your houseplants will thrive as rainwater is naturally soft and chemical-free.
Breathe Easy
Rainwater contains more oxygen than tap water which promotes plant growth.
Don’t Run Off
Rain barrels reduce stormwater runoff which helps prevent erosion and pollution.
Rain Or Shine
Rain barrels provide a sustainable water source during droughts or water restrictions.
If you already have a rain barrel, make sure it’s securely connected to your downspouts, clear of debris and that the overflow drain points away from your foundation.
If you don’t already have a rain barrel, Earth Day is the perfect time to pick one up. That way, you’ll be able to cash in on the April showers!
Whatever you end up doing this Earth Day, here’s hoping you have a world of fun and a barrel of laughs!
STAGING TIPS THAT SPRING TO MIND
If you’re thinking of selling your home, there’s no time like springtime!
Home sales usually surge in the spring as the fresh air and sunny weather encourage people to fix up their homes and check out what else is on the market. Here are a few ways to take advantage of spring fever:
Curb Appeal
Spring weather will bring out the best in your yard so trim your shrubs, rake the lawn and add a few flower pots by the front door.
Clutter Control
Go through any unused items and decide what needs to be tossed out and what can be donated to charity.
Spring Fling
Once you’ve decluttered, freshen up your home inside and out with a thorough spring clean.
Wide Open
Clean and then open your windows so the sun shines in and fresh spring air flows throughout your home.
Flower Power
Place a few vases of fresh-cut flowers throughout your home to bring the natural feel of spring indoors.
Pillow Talk
Inject vitality into your space by swapping out couch cushions, towels and throws with shades that reflect the spring season.
Outdoor Living
People are entertaining more at home than ever before so extend your inside space outdoors with comfortable seating and ambient lighting.
If you plan on putting your home on the market, use the spring season to highlight its best features so it stands out from the competition.
You only have one chance to make a great first impression, so clear out the cobwebs and watch your home spring to life!
DON’T FORGET THE 4 R’S!
Your referrals mean the world to me so if you know of someone in the Grey Bruce area who’s thinking of making a move, please don’t forget to mention my name! 
GREY BRUCE REAL ESTATE UPDATE – March 2024
Please don’t hesitate to reach out for detailed stats that are specific to your neighbourhood, or even if you’re just curious about what the place down the road sold for – it’d be great to hear from you!
TIRED OF TOSSING AND TURNING?
Perfecting your pillow time can transform your days from blah to bliss.
If all you’re dreaming of is a good night’s sleep, you’re not alone.
Lack of sleep can take a massive toll on our mental and physical health. The following tips will help you get the sleep you need:
It’s a No-Glo
Hide all light sources in your bedroom, no matter how faint, and turn off your phone at least 30 minutes before hitting the hay.
Just Be Cool
Keep the bedroom temperature on the cool side and wear socks to bed to help evenly transfer heat to your extremities.
Like Night & Day
Take in all the sunshine you can during the day as it changes the melatonin levels in your body which helps you to sleep better when darkness falls.
Regular Routine
Your body has an internal clock (circadian rhythm) that thrives on routine so try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
Stay Fit
Exercise during the day can help you sleep better, but avoid working out at night. Instead, ease muscle tension with some light stretches before climbing into bed.
No Worries
Make a to-do list before going to bed so you don’t end up lying there worrying about all of the things you have to do the next day.
Write On
Keep a pen and paper beside your bed in case your mind starts racing so that you can easily flush out all of your thoughts.
Embracing healthy sleep habits is key to enhancing both your physical and emotional well-being.
By following the tips above, you’ll be able to effortlessly transition into sleep every night, waking up in the morning with a new level of energy that will give you a positive and productive mindset. Sweet dreams!
THE COLLEGE CRIB ADVANTAGE
Buying a college crib for your kid could be a great investment opportunity!
It’s an exciting time as your child prepares to pack up and set out on their college journey, but this new chapter also comes with its fair share of financial obligations.
If your child is spreading their wings and leaving the nest to study away from home, accommodation will be a significant expense but this financial challenge can present a unique real estate investment opportunity!
By purchasing a property for your child to live in while attending school, you’re not just securing a roof over their head; you’re opening the door to a financial future with benefits that will extend well beyond graduation.
Here are just a few points to consider when weighing the options of whether or not to buy a crib for your college-bound kid:
Smart Moves
Instead of sinking endless amounts of cash into rent or dorm fees, your monthly payments will go towards building your net worth.
Cover the Costs
Use the rent collected from roommates to help cover the mortgage payments while your child pitches in to take care of general property maintenance.
Life Lessons
Managing a property can teach your kids valuable life skills that will help prepare them for future management situations as well as homeownership.
Expert Advice
Partner with an experienced real estate agent who’s familiar with the area so that they can help you get acquainted with the local market.
Ownership Options
Discuss ownership options with your financial planner and mortgage advisor to determine whether or not it’s best to list your child on the property’s title.
Planning Ahead
Research local vacancy rates and zoning laws to make sure your investment will continue to pay off once your child hangs up their cap and gown.
Investing in student housing by purchasing a property for your child can be a strategic investment opportunity that will provide them with a sense of independence and financial savvy as they transition into adulthood.
If you’d like to explore this opportunity but aren’t sure where to start, I can point you in the right direction by referring you to an out-of-town agent who can guide you through every step. Just reach out – it’d be great to hear from you!