Connie Powell-Brewer, Realtor. Coldwell Banker Pryor Realty Inc

There are many reasons people downsize when moving homes. But one thing is important to prioritize: a mindset of ABUNDANCE as the final outcome. When you declutter and scale back on “things,” you make room for MORE FREEDOM with less work. I’m talking adventure and time with family!

Here are some of my tips when downsizing👇🏼

Consider decluttering and organizing your belongings. Highlight the space-saving features of your home, and emphasize its potential for a simpler lifestyle. Explore storage solutions to maximize space and showcase versatile rooms. Additionally, explore local donation centers or consignment shops for items you won’t be taking with you. Lastly, hiring a professional organizer or staging expert can enhance your home’s appeal to potential buyers.

If you’re looking to simplify your lifestyle and help with downsizing, I’d love to hold your hand through the journey!

We may not get a ton of snow in Chattanooga, BUT our city sure is festive this time of year and I would bet we have some of the most beautiful Christmas lights around! Here’s a few of my favorite spots:

Chattanooga Zoo
301 N. Holtzclaw Ave.�See over 30 illuminated lanterns and interactive displays as you journey throughout the zoo.

Enchanted Garden of Lights @ Rock City
1400 Patten Rd.�Walk through Rock City Garden’s winter wonderland featuring over one million LED lights.

Festive Forest @ Miller Park
928 Market St.�See 50 lighted trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. Pro tip: Head across the street to check out EPB’s holiday window displays.

Christmas on the Mountain @ Ruby Falls
1720 Scenic Hwy.�See the beautiful holiday lights on the Village Plaza + enjoy festive activities at the historic castle.

Christmas Lights at The Commons
4750 Swinyar Dr.�See the displays, a lighted 45-ft tree, and other festive decorations.

Holidays Under the Peaks @ Tennessee Aquarium
1 Broad St.�Now through Sunday, Dec. 31, experience holiday decor and music + see a light-bedecked tree twinkling in sync with jolts from Miguel Wattson, the aquarium’s electric eel.

Walnut Street Bridge
1 Walnut St.�See the twinkling snowflakes while you walk the pedestrian bridge — best viewed at night.

4 things that will make you the most money when Selling:

Storage unit: If you have a lot of things/clutter we really need to put it somewhere else. And If you are occupying the home while trying to sell it’s extremely important to depersonalize as much as possible.

DEEP clean, this one speaks for itself but if you are wanting TOP dollar for your house then you need to help make sure it shows that way.

Staging: Especially if your home is vacant I highly recommend this. Staged homes sell 87% faster than non-staged homes. They also sell for an average of 17% more, so you could recoup the cost of staging and then some.

Get yourself a trusted and experienced Realtor that can help you with the 3 things above and many more! I’m a full service realtor and truly will do whatever it takes to help you have a successful sale and for the most money in your pocket as possible.

Interest rates are up and then down, the market changes, home inventory varies, life circumstances are unpredictable. So what makes the most sense? Buy when it’s the BEST TIME FOR YOU.

Buy when you feel comfortable and finally found the perfect home.

Buy when you finally have good credit and your debt to income ratio are in good standing.

Buy when you have a lender you trust who has given you a solid financial game plan that you feel completely comfortable with.

Buy when you find a reputable experienced realtor who you truly connect with and who can guide you every step of the way 🤔🙋🏼‍♀️❤️

There’s no rush and you shouldn’t feel pressured that you’re going to miss out. Because at the end of the day, the decision is for your family and something that should only make sense to you with timing.

Ready to be HOME for the HOLIDAYS? 🏠🎄 Here are some things to steer clear of now that you’re pre-approved to buy a home:

❌Taking on new debt
Avoid opening new credit accounts or taking on additional debt, as it can impact your credit score and loan approval.

❌Changing jobs
Stability in employment is crucial.
Changing jobs or quitting your current job might raise concerns for lenders.

❌Making large purchases
Avoid significant expenses, as they could affect your debt-to-income ratio, a crucial factor in loan approval.

❌Neglecting financial responsibilities
Be diligent about managing your finances. Lenders may recheck your credit before closing, so maintain your financial stability.

Handling a real estate transaction with immaculate care and attention to detail is akin to moving a baby grand piano because both tasks require precision, expertise, and tremendous patience.

Just as delicately maneuvering a piano ensures it reaches its destination without a scratch, a well-executed home buying or selling experience demands meticulous planning, thorough documentation, and a keen eye for every detail.

Both processes involve coordinating multiple elements seamlessly, safeguarding valuable assets, and ensuring a smooth transition for all parties involved.

I am blown away by the team at Summitt Pianos of Hixson, TN. They are a wonderful reflection of what exceptional customer service means in any business!!! ❤️

Happy Halloween!!! Have a WONDERFUL and safe time tonight!!! 🎃🍬🐈‍⬛

Waiting on Summitt Piano movers to move this beautiful instrument!

You just can’t help yourself to tickle the ivory….

My goal is to help you navigate the TRICKY process of closing on your home smoothly. Don’t be SPOOKED by the journey, I’ve got that under control. But there are some things you need to avoid after applying for your home loan:

1. **Taking on new debt:** Avoid opening new credit accounts or taking on additional debt, as it can impact your credit score and loan approval.

2. **Changing jobs:** Stability in employment is crucial. Changing jobs or quitting your current job might raise concerns for lenders.

3. **Missing payments:** Continue to pay bills on time. Late payments can affect your credit score and jeopardize your loan approval.

4. **Making large purchases:** Avoid significant expenses, as they could affect your debt-to-income ratio, a crucial factor in loan approval.

5. **Neglecting financial responsibilities:** Be diligent about managing your finances. Lenders may recheck your credit before closing, so maintain your financial stability.

6. **Skipping home inspections:** Always conduct a thorough home inspection to identify potential issues. Skipping this step can lead to costly problems after purchase.

7. **Ignoring closing costs:** Be aware of all closing costs and fees. Ignoring them can lead to financial strain during the closing process.

8. **Neglecting to save for emergencies:** Owning a home comes with unexpected expenses. Save for emergencies to handle repairs or unexpected financial challenges.

The answer is different for everyone as it depends on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and personal preferences. Some things to consider👇🏼

1. Sell First, Then Buy
Selling your current home before purchasing a new one is the safest option financially. It gives you a clear picture of your budget for the new home and prevents you from owning two properties simultaneously. However, it may require you to find temporary housing between selling your old home and buying a new one.

2. Buy First, Then Sell
If you find your dream home before selling your current one, you could buy the new home first. This option provides a seamless transition, but it comes with financial risks. You’ll have to manage two mortgages until your old home sells, which can be financially stressful.

3. Bridge Loan
If you need to buy a new home before selling your old one, you might consider a bridge loan. This short-term loan can cover the down payment for the new home. Once your old home sells, you can use the proceeds to pay off the bridge loan. However, bridge loans often come with high interest rates.

4. Contingency Offer
You can make an offer on a new home contingent on the sale of your current home. If your current home doesn’t sell within a specified period, the offer becomes void. While this protects you from owning two homes, some sellers might be hesitant to accept contingent offers, especially in a competitive market.

💕I’ve helped families through each of these situations and would love to help you too. If you would like guidance from a local resource on the best option for you, let’s connect today so you can feel secure with a plan!