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Check out these top home renovations that will get you the best bang for your buck!

Haus to Home is help you with every step along the way with your buying process.

With there being little to no competition in the market right now, this is the time to sell! If you have any questions about selling or the market please reach out!

In need of a Christmas morning recipe??
Check this one out!

• Step 1
Heat oven to 500 degrees. Spread croissants on a large baking sheet and toast, cut side up, until golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes (watch carefully to see that they do not burn). Let cool, then tear into large bite-size pieces.

• Step 2
In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced scallions and sausage meat; cook, breaking up meat with a fork, until mixture is well browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in sage, and remove from heat.

• Step 3
In a large bowl, toss together croissants and sausage mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, 1½ cups cheese, salt and pepper.

• Step 4
Lightly oil a 9- x 13-inch baking dish. Turn croissant mixture into pan, spreading it out evenly over the bottom. Pour custard into pan, pressing croissants down gently to help absorb the liquid. Cover pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

• Step 5
When you’re ready to bake the casserole, heat oven to 350 degrees. Scatter the remaining grated cheese over the top of the casserole. Transfer to oven and bake until casserole is golden brown and firm to the touch, 45 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Garnish with sliced scallion tops before serving.

Are you ready to sell your home in 2023? Take the quiz to find out!

As we go into Christmas week I hope we can all step back and enjoy this time we have with our families and reflect on the past year.

🎄

It’s December. And that means you don’t have time to read long and boring posts about getting a mortgage. What instead? THIS lightning-round mortgage FAQ!

Q: Should I shop around for the best rate?
A: A thousand times YES! And don’t worry about stepping on lenders' toes. Tell them you’d like to work with them, but you’re shopping around for the best rate.

Q: Will multiple mortgage loan applications hurt my credit score?
A: Maybe by a few points, but not enough to keep you from comparison shopping. As long as credit inquiries are made within a few days of one another, each is typically counted as a single inquiry for credit-scoring purposes.

Q: How far in advance should I apply for a mortgage?
A: The sooner, the better, but apply only when you’re almost certain to buy. Pre-approval letters are valid anywhere from 30-90 days.

There, that was quick, wasn’t it? Have more questions? I have answers! DM us, we'd love to help.

Feeling the squeeze this holiday season and wondering how much it would cost to bump out a wall or add a room out back?

Here are a few figures to keep in mind. Remember, size, detail, and materials will all greatly influence your bottom line.

- Adding a room or bedroom is the most common addition. A 20x20 addition will run about $80-200 per square foot or $32,000 – $80,000.
- Expanding your kitchen by 200 square feet will be between $48,000 to $94,000. That's a lot, I know. Just need a kitchen refresh? You can tackle a minor kitchen remodel for $10,000 to $15,000.
- Thinking about the in-laws? (Of course you are this time of year!) A 600-750 square foot detached in-law suite will come in somewhere between $78,000 and $135,000.

Adding square footage to your home will increase its value, no doubt, but not dollar-for-dollar. If you’d like to chat more about how you can make the most of your home or discuss the additions with the highest ROI, DM us, and we'll be in touch!

Wondering what happens during a seller consult? Simple - I'll listen, learn, and strategize so we can get your house sold!

Plan on lots of questions coming your way so I can get to know you and your property. Questions like:

1. Why are you moving? How soon will you need to move?
2. What do you love about your home? What would you change?
3. What is most important to you: getting the highest price or selling in the shortest amount of time? (I'm pretty sure we can both!)
4. What selling price would thrill you? Discourage you?
5. Are there any nuisances or fussy neighbors to note?
6. Any current or past problems with the home? Lead paint or other disclosures?
7. Have you completed major renovations or upgrades? When?
8. What agent services are most important to you?

We’ll also talk prep, staging, pricing, and marketing. If it sounds like a lot, don't worry! You just show up, and I'll handle the rest.

Ready to get started? DM me, and let’s find a time to connect today!

Are you thinking about buying a home?
Have questions about the process?
Unsure of where or how to begin?

You need a buyer consult.

During the consult (AKA you and me having a chat), I’ll break down the process step by step, answer your questions and talk through your concerns, discuss your housing wants and needs, and talk through ways to make your offer shine to sellers.

Ready to get started? I'm here! Send me a DM, and let's find a time to connect.

Spend a day with me, and you’ll find yourself logging some serious time in my living room. If it’s comfy, cozy and close to the kitchen - I’m in!

And while you may say you love them all the same, I’m guessing you've got one spot you love just a tad bit more than the rest.

Does some place come to mind? I’d love to know - where is YOUR favorite spot to spend time? What do you love about it?

Share in the comments below!

Ever heard of the BRRRR method? (AKA – Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) It is an investment strategy that’s designed for flipping distressed property, renting it out, then cash-out refinancing it to fund future investments. It can be a smart and savvy way to build your rental portfolio and enjoy some not-too-shabby passive income. Wondering how to get started? Send us a DM — we're happy to help!

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“Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” — Winston Churchill

To all those who served, thank you for your sacrifice, commitment, and courage. We honor you with hearts of gratefulness today!

Raise your hand if you know it’s time to upsize your house 🤚🤚

You’ve done all the decluttering and rearranging you can do, your kids and your dreams need space to grow, and you’re feeling the squeeze in your home and in your spirit ALL.DAY.LONG.

But then, the naysayers swoop in, gabbing about rising interest rates, soaring home prices, and bad timing.

Here's the gentle truth: Only you know what’s right for you and when it’s right for you.

That said, listen to your gut and, at the very least, get the information you need to make a decision based on facts, not on fear.

Ready to explore what’s out there and crunch real numbers with no strings attached? DM us today. We think you’ll be surprised at what you see.

[CUSTOMIZE THIS WITH YOUR OWN PROFESSIONAL OPINION]

The biggest misconception I hear about buying right now is that it’s smart to wait for interest rates to come down.

You DON’T need to wait!

What DO you need? If you know you’re ready to buy, you need an agent who knows the market in your desired location and a trusted lender who can help you understand what you can afford.

The truth is if you buy at today’s rates, you can always refinance if rates drop. But if you wait with the hope of rates coming down, you can't go back and borrow at today's rates if that doesn't happen.

So the next time you think to yourself, “Maybe I’ll wait.” Don’t do it! Let me at least show you homes in your price range so you can make a decision based on facts.

Is the above you? Have you been struggling to decide about buying now vs. waiting? DM, and let’s talk - no strings attached.

Here’s the thing: Buying a home is super exciting. It’s arguably the largest financial investment you’ll make, and it tells the world you’re officially adulting!

Once you’ve signed on the dotted line, follow these 10 tips for homeowning like a pro:

1. Change the locks as soon as possible.
2. Ask around to find a reliable handyman.
3. Find a secure home for all those warranties and manuals so you’ll be able to find them whenever necessary.
4. If possible, paint before you move in. It’s much easier in an empty house.
5. Meet the neighbors. You never know when you’ll need a friendly favor.
6. Plant shade trees. In a few years, you’ll be so glad you did.
7. Replace the air filters, especially if the home was on the market for a while.
8. Start an emergency fund for repairs and maintenance.
9. Be slow to take on major renovations.
10. If you do renovate, make improvements that will add value. (I can help!)

What’d we forget? Drop your advice for new homeowners in the comments!

A surprise trip to Disney? Go for it! A surprise move away from all your kids know and love? Not so much.

Let's talk about selling your home and moving with kids - here are our 5 do’s and don’ts!

1. Don’t make it a surprise. Be as transparent as early as possible and answer ALL their questions openly and honestly.
2. Do let your kids see their new home. If possible, arrange a kid-friendly tour of your new home before moving day. Let them explore every part and feel the excitement that always comes with a move.
3. Don’t expect them to be “good little helpers” on moving day. The truth is having them around will add to YOUR stress. Arrange for childcare with friends or family the day of the move — and probably the day before. You’ll be way more relaxed knowing your little ones are having a blast.
4. Do set aside their favorite things. Welcome your kids home with all their favorites - stuffed animals, yard toys, and for older kids, the new wifi password. Unpack kids’ rooms first so they’ll have a place to play while you set up the rest of the house.
5. Do plan for meals on moving day. Moving is hard - don’t make it worse by overlooking meals. Order takeout before your move to be delivered early in the day, long BEFORE you and the kids get hangry (hungry + angry).

Have you moved with kids before? Do you have something you’d add? Comment your thoughts below!

Is it even possible to feel stuck when you have MORE home than you need?

Yep, it is. I see it all the time. But today, I want to let you in on five ways you know for sure it’s time to downsize.

1. Your home has multiple spaces that sit unused, like extra bedrooms, an expansive yard, or a full basement.
2. Home maintenance feels overwhelming, and, well, you’re just flat out over it.
3. You’d like more room in your monthly budget for travel, family, or retirement.
4. Your children are happy to host birthdays, holidays, and get-togethers.
5. You’re ready for a change: new scenery, people, and neighborhood amenities.

The good news? Downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading! We'd love to show you your options. DM us, and let’s chat about what you’re looking for.

Ready for some real talk about getting a mortgage this fall?

As rates inch higher, more homeowners are buying down their interest rates. Curious about what that means and if it’s right for you? Here’s the rundown on mortgage rate buydowns:

- A mortgage buydown is a way to lower your interest rate by paying discount points at closing. Discount points are a one-time, upfront fee.
- Each point costs 1 percent of the mortgage. For example, one point on a $200,000 mortgage would cost $2,000.
- Each point lowers the rate by 0.25 percent. So, one point would lower a mortgage rate from 6 percent to 5.75 percent for the life of the loan.

If you've got some extra savings and can afford it, buying mortgage points may be a smart investment.

Have more questions about buying a home or taking out a mortgage this fall? DM me - we are here to help however I can.

If you're staring down November (and the holiday rush!) and need to get your home ready for all that's to come, this post is for you!

Put these November home maintenance tasks at the top of your to-dos:

- Clean kitchen exhaust hood and filter
- Clean out the pantry and refrigerator
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Replace the weatherstripping on your windows
- Secure your home from pests and critters
- Wash throw pillow covers and blankets

If you're nodding your head, thinking, “yep, this is exactly what I need to do', it’s time to get to it! Don’t let the winter season get the best of you, a little prep will go a long way.

Fact: We can be bribed with candy all year long.

But this time of year, there's no bribing necessary! Here are all the places we’ll be hitting up for tricks, treats, and Halloween magic right here in Birmingham!

- Helena Hollow: A family-friendly outing filled with hay rides, pumpkin picking, and all the hot apple cider you can drink down.
- Atrox: If you’re looking for something a little spookier, get ready for a ghoulishly good time at Atrox, one of Birmingham’s scariest attractions for thrill seekers all over town.
- Pilcrow: Last but not least, reserve a table at Pilcrow to treat yourself to a seriously good drink while basking in the city’s most spell-binding Halloween decor.

Get the costume ready, friends. It’s time to eat, drink, and be scary! Know of an event we didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments below!

Buyers, don’t be spooked this October by high interest rates! Here’s why:

- An increase in rates will cost you more, but it may not be as much as you think. Example: A $300,000 loan with a 5% fixed rate comes out to roughly $1,610 a month. A $300,000 loan with a 6.5% fixed rate? $1,896 a month - a difference of $286.
- Mortgage rates are still low compared to the rates from the last 40 years. Consider October 1981. The 30-year mortgage rate was 18.45%. Now, that's something to fear!
- Few people are selling, and there just aren’t enough houses to go around—and it’s going to be a while before builders can catch up. Translation: Buying isn’t going to get cheaper anytime soon.

If you were ready to buy before rates crept upwards, don’t let today’s numbers derail your plans. Instead, revisit the numbers, widen your search, and consider new construction where you won’t have to deal with mobs of other buyers.

We are here if you’d like to chat more about buying this fall. DM us, and let’s talk about strategies to get you in your next home by the end of the year.

It can be hard to tell the real estate tricks from treats, so let’s clear the confusion once and for all. Here are some of the most common real estate myths, debunked:

MYTH: “You don’t need a real estate agent to buy a home.”
TRUTH: Buyer agents 1) Are duty-bound to put your interests first, 2) Will ensure you stay organized (and calm!) through the buying process, and 3) Use their local knowledge and expertise to help you realize the perfect home at a price you feel great about. Why would you want to skimp on that?

MYTH: “You should start the buying process by looking at homes.”
TRUTH: It’s critical to start the process by getting your financial ducks in a row. First stop? A preapproval letter from a trusted lender. You’ll thank yourself later when you're able to put in that offer lightning fast.

MYTH: “You need 20% down plus closing costs to buy.”
TRUTH: While 20% is ideal, most buyers don’t have that amount of cash lying around. There are many loans that have down payments as low as 3.5% (or even 0%!), so ask your agent or lender what’s right for you.

When it comes to buying and selling, knowledge is power. Never blindly follow the advice you’ve heard from the internet or your friends without talking with an experienced agent.

Have other thoughts or questions about buying? DM us, no strings attached.

First responders, this post is for you.

My team is so thankful for the way you dedicate yourself to saving lives and making our community a safer place to be. Today, on National First Responders Day, we honor you for your courage, bravery, and sacrifice.

Hey all! To make their job easier, how about we do our part to make our homes safer places to be? Join me in:

- Testing smoke detectors monthly
- Installing carbon monoxide alarms on every floor
- Covering electrical outlets
- Repairing or replacing faulty wires
- Locking up chemicals, medications, and fi****ms
- Installing locks on sliding doors
- Covering sharp corners with guards or bumpers
- Securing heavy furniture to the wall
- Creating a family escape plan in case of emergency

Thanks again, first responders, for everything you do!

Real estate agents: What's your favorite part about our career? Comment below! For us, it's: - Seeing a wave of calm come over new homeowners as we talk about the buying process - Dialing a seller's number to share the details of a really strong offer - Watching clients step into the next chapter of their life with a home to match - That few seconds during closing when it's time to hand the keys to buyers - Watching a client’s face light up when they finally find the perfect home - Getting to explore our town and meet local business owners. We all have our passions, and, no doubt, real estate is ours! Are you thinking of selling before the end of 2022? Reach out and let us share more about what’s happening in our area. We’d love to connect with you!

We'll just come out and say it: The home inspection should be a total non-negotiable for buyers.

Why? Because if anything is found, you are free to back out of the contract - no strings attached.

The only caveat is if a seller demands you waive the inspection as a condition of accepting your offer. But as the market tilts ever-so-slightly away from sellers this fall, we’ve got our fingers crossed that all this contingency waiving is largely a thing of the past.

Keep in mind that an inspection contingency comes with a deadline of seven to ten days, so you need to be ready to make some quick decisions once you receive the inspection report. Red flags that should give you pause include:

- Foundation issues
- Termites
- Water damage
- Roof concerns

When it comes to a less-than-stellar inspection, you have to weigh how much risk, investment, and seller negotiation you’re comfortable with for a house you love.

Have other questions about buying? Drop them in the comments below, and We’ll reply ASAP. We look forward to connecting!

If you're anything like us then you have a dog or multiple! We so appreciate a washable rug and think ever dog owner who struggles like we do with hair and pet stains should have a good rug!

Need some inspiration and ideas for saving for a down payment? I got you covered!

1. Set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account each month.
2. Decide now to put aside raises, bonuses, gifts, or tax refunds.
3. Skip the costly vacation, plan a staycation, and save the difference.
4. Pare down holiday and birthday gift-giving.
5. Rent out a spare room or parking space.
6. Pick up a side hustle like freelancing, pet sitting, ridesharing, or a part-time job. Remember, it’s just until you hit your down payment goal.

While 20% down allows you to avoid private mortgage insurance, you rarely will need that large a payment. A 3-10% down payment will put you in a strong position when you apply for a mortgage.

Have questions or want to connect about the buying process as a whole? DM me, and I’ll be in touch!