Kelly Burris with Realty Executives

Summer is here and it's time to get your home ready for the season. As a real estate agent, I know how important it is to keep your home clean and organized, especially during this busy time of year. That's why I have put together a to help you stay on top of your household chores and make the most out of your summer. Here are a few tasks that should be on your list:

Clean the grill
Ceiling fans
Plan for extreme heat
Conduct pest control

I hope my June cleaning list has given you some ideas on how to stay organized and prepared for the summer months as a homeowner. By staying on top of these tasks, you can enjoy your summer without any added stress or worries.

Happy cleaning!

🚨 ATTENTION all potential home buyers! 🚨

One of the biggest mistakes you can make in the home buying process is purchasing a house that is out of your budget. Not only will this put you under immense financial strain, but it can also lead to more serious consequences down the line. As a trusted real estate agent, it is my duty to advise you not to take on more than you can handle.

Before falling in love with a dream home that may be out of your price range, make sure to get pre-approved for a mortgage and determine how much house you can realistically afford. Remember, lenders may offer you more than what is wise to spend, so it's important to stay within your means. Don't let the excitement of buying a new home cloud your judgement and lead you to make a decision that could have negative long-term effects.

A mortgage payment that is too high can quickly become a heavy burden, potentially leading to financial strain, difficulty in making ends meet, and even the possibility of having to sell the home or move. It's important to carefully consider all aspects of your finances before committing to a mortgage and purchasing a house.

Let's talk about which property you would choose if given the chance!

Option A: The serene and picturesque Farm House, perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape from the city life. Surrounded by acres of greenery, it's an ideal choice for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Option B: The luxurious Penthouse with stunning views of the city skyline. Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, it's perfect for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of city living.

So, tell me, which one would you choose? Cast your vote in the comments below.

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Are you considering buying a new home? Don't overlook the importance of location, especially when it comes to school districts!

As a real estate agent, I constantly see how houses in good school districts not only gain in value, but also retain their value over time.

In fact, studies have shown that homes located in top-rated school districts can increase in value by up to 20% compared to homes in average or below-average school districts.

Investing in a home within a good school district is a smart decision for several reasons. First, families with children are often willing to pay a premium to live in an area with top-rated schools, making these homes highly desirable on the market.

Additionally, living in a good school district can also have a positive impact on your property taxes and insurance rates.

Are you looking to buy or sell a home? Look no further! I am here to help guide you through the real estate process.

As a real estate agent, I am constantly inspired by my clients and their dreams of finding the perfect home. Finding that special place where memories are made and families grow is truly priceless.

But what makes me truly grateful for my job is the opportunity to partner with my clients and be a part of their real estate journey.

Together, we can navigate the ever-changing market and find the perfect home or buyer for you.

So if you are ready to embark on this exciting adventure, I am here to support and guide you every step of the way. Let's make our partnership a success and find that dream home or perfect buyer together!

As a real estate agent, I've seen first hand how important it is to create a positive and welcoming environment in your home. Trust me, it can make all the difference! So here are some simple but effective ways to fill your space with positivity:

Use essential oils: Not only do they smell amazing, but certain essential oils like lavender and peppermint have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, they can help purify the air in your home.

Incorporate some flowers and planters in every corner: Plants not only add a pop of color to your space, but studies have shown that having plants indoors can improve air quality and boost your mood.

Add some spiritual artwork and charming decor to your space: Surrounding yourself with positive messages and uplifting images can have a powerful impact on your mindset. Consider incorporating symbols of love, peace, or gratitude into your home decor.

Use natural sunlight to enhance the aura of your room: Open up those curtains and let the natural light pour in! Sunlight has been linked to improved mood, energy levels, and even better sleep. So take advantage of it whenever you can.

Remember, your home is where you should feel safe, happy, and at peace. By using these simple recommendations, you can create a space that radiates positivity and sets the tone for a more fulfilling life. Trust me, it's worth the effort.

Did you know that building your credit is a crucial step in the home buying process?

The higher your credit score, the better interest rates and loan options you will have. So let's talk about how to build that credit up before you start house hunting!

One great way to begin building your credit is by getting a secured credit card. This type of card requires a security deposit which serves as your credit limit, making it easier to manage and build up your credit score.

It's important to use this card responsibly by making small purchases and paying off the balance in full each month.

As you continue to build your credit, you will have more options when it comes to home loans and interest rates.

So don't wait, start working on building your credit today so you can make your dream of homeownership a reality!

IT’S JUST NOT TRUE. 🙅🏼‍♀️ As a real estate agent, I often hear people say that you need to have 20% of the total house price saved up for a down payment. But let me tell you something - that's not entirely true!

Yes, having a large down payment is ideal as it can lower your monthly mortgage payments and help you avoid private mortgage insurance. However, it's not always feasible for everyone to save that amount of money.

That's where I come in as your trusted guide through the home buying process. There are actually many different loan programs available that require a lower down payment, such as FHA loans which only require 3.5% down and VA loans with no down payment for qualifying veterans. Plus, there are also down payment assistance programs that can help make buying a home more affordable.

So don't let the misconception of needing 20% down hold you back from achieving your dream of owning a home. Let's sit down and discuss all the options available to find the best fit for you and your financial situation.

Paint is more than just a decor piece, it's an essential element in creating the perfect home. Here are some reasons why paint should be on your top priority list when decorating your space:
✅ Instant Transformation - The power of paint is truly remarkable. With just a few coats, you can completely transform the look and feel of a room. Whether you want to brighten up your space or add a splash of color, paint is the way to go.
✅ Cost-Effective - Compared to other home decor options, paint is relatively inexpensive. It allows you to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank. Plus, you can always change it up whenever you feel like a refresh.
✅ Personalization - Your home should reflect your unique personality and style. Paint allows you to do just that by giving you endless options to choose from. From bold and vibrant colors to soft and muted tones, the possibilities are endless.
✅ Mood Booster - The right color can have a huge impact on your mood. Bright hues can make you feel energized and productive, while cool tones can create a sense of calm and relaxation. Choose the colors that speak to you and watch your mood elevate instantly.

So next time you're looking to spruce up your home, don't overlook the power of paint. It's not just a decor piece, it's a game-changer for creating a space that truly feels like home. Happy painting!

I am always grateful for the sacrifices made by our military members.

Their dedication and commitment to our country make it possible for us to live in such a wonderful place like North Carolina.

So, on this Memorial Day, let's take a moment to remember and honor these heroes.

If you're thinking about selling your home, it's important to plan ahead and consider all the costs involved.

As a real estate agent, I always advise my clients to set aside at least $1500 for legal fees when selling their home. These fees can include lawyer fees, title searches, and any other legal documentation that may be required during the process.

While it may seem like an extra expense, having a lawyer by your side can provide peace of mind and ensure that all legalities are taken care of properly. Plus, by setting aside this amount in advance, you won't have to worry about any unexpected costs popping up later on.

So, if you're planning on putting your home on the market, make sure to budget for legal fees and consult with a trusted lawyer.

It's your friendly neighborhood real estate agent here! As we all know, first impressions are everything when it comes to selling a home. That's why I want to remind you all to clean your garbage disposal before your open house.

We've all been there - cooking up a storm in the kitchen and throwing scraps down the disposal without a second thought. But let's be real, that thing can get pretty smelly if not cleaned properly.

Trust me, taking these extra steps will make a world of difference when potential buyers walk into your home. And if you're not feeling up for the task, don't hesitate to call in a professional plumber to give your garbage disposal a deep cleaning.

I always recommend getting preapproved for a loan before starting your home search. Here's why:
1️⃣ Knowing the loan amount you can afford will save you time and energy by focusing your search on properties within your budget.
2️⃣ Getting preapproved narrows down your search to only those properties that you can actually purchase, avoiding any disappointment later on.
3️⃣ Being preapproved makes you a more desirable buyer in the eyes of sellers. It shows them that you are serious and have already taken the necessary steps towards purchasing a home.
4️⃣ With a preapproval in hand, you can present a stronger offer when competing with other buyers. This can give you an edge and increase your chances of getting your dream home.
5️⃣ Lastly, being preapproved helps improve the timeliness of closing on a home. By having all your financial documents in order beforehand, you can expedite the loan process and potentially close on your new home faster.

So if you're thinking about buying a home, take the time to get preapproved for a loan. It will make your home buying journey smoother and more successful. Happy house hunting!

As a real estate agent, I have been to countless open houses and have seen what works and what doesn't. And today, I want to share with you all a little secret for hosting a successful open house: removing personal photos in your home.

I know it may seem counterintuitive since we often think of personal photos as adding character and making a house feel like home. But trust me, when it comes to open houses, less is more.

By removing personal photos, potential buyers can focus on the features of the house rather than getting distracted by your family vacation pictures or your child's graduation photo. This will allow them to envision themselves living in the space, which is crucial for making a sale.

Not only that, but removing personal photos also helps protect your privacy. With social media being such a big part of our lives, it's important to keep personal information private and not share it with strangers walking through your home.
So before hosting an open house, take some time to pack away those family photos and create a blank canvas for potential buyers to envision their own memories in

As a real estate agent, I have seen firsthand the importance of regular home maintenance. And with May being National Home Remodeling Month, it's the perfect time to start tackling those projects and improving your home.
Here are my top 3 tips for giving your home some TLC this month:

1️⃣ Wash the house - Over time, dirt, dust and grime can build up on the exterior of your home. Pressure washing or using a garden hose with a specialized cleaning solution can make a huge difference in restoring the appearance of your home.
2️⃣ Paint the house - A fresh coat of paint not only gives your home a facelift, but it also helps protect against weather and wear. Plus, with so many color options available, you can really make a statement and add some personality to your home.
3️⃣ Refinish the deck - Your outdoor living space deserves some attention too! Sanding down and re-staining your deck not only enhances its appearance but also helps prolong its lifespan.

Don't wait until it's too late to take care of your home. By staying on top of maintenance, you not only increase its value but also create a safe and comfortable living environment for you and your family. Let's make May the month for improving our homes!

Hey there homeowners! Did you know that understanding your home equity can help you make better financial decisions?
Let's break it down together with these simple steps:

1️⃣ Take the current market value of your home and subtract any outstanding mortgage balance. This will give you the total amount of equity in your home.
2️⃣ Keep in mind that your home equity can increase over time if the market value of your home goes up or if you make extra payments towards your mortgage.
3️⃣ Use this calculation to see how much you could potentially borrow against your home or even use it as collateral for a loan.

Understanding your home equity can give you a better idea of your financial standing and help you make informed decisions for the future.

As a real estate agent, I constantly see the impact that local businesses have on our communities. That's why I want to use my platform to support and promote small businesses in our area.

Drop a link to your business (or another local small business) in the comments below so my followers and I can check it out and show some love!

Let's all come together and support each other.

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Don't let crayon marks ruin the beautiful walls of your home!

With this simple trick, you can easily remove them without any harsh chemicals. And the best part? You probably already have all the ingredients at home!

So next time your little ones get a bit too creative with their coloring, remember to grab some baking soda and a damp rag and watch those marks disappear in no time.

As a real estate agent, I understand the importance of maintaining a clean and presentable home, especially when it comes to potential buyers. So don't let those crayon marks be a source of stress or embarrassment. Try out this easy cleaning hack and enjoy having a beautiful, mark-free home!

If you have a teacher who has impacted your life in a positive way, I encourage you to tag and thank them in the comments below. Let's spread some love and appreciation for the amazing educators out there!

Hey everyone! It's Kelly Burris, your friendly neighborhood real estate agent here, and today I want to talk about one of the most important rooms in your house when it comes to hosting guests or showing your home to potential buyers: the guest bathroom.

We all know that first impressions are crucial, and a dirty or unkempt bathroom can really be a turn off. So, don't forget to give your guest bathroom some extra TLC.

Here are some tips to make sure your guest bathroom is sparkling clean and ready to impress:

Start with the basics: clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, shower/bathtub, and countertops. Use a good all-purpose cleaner or vinegar solution for an eco-friendly option.
Declutter and organize: clear out any unnecessary items from countertops or shelves to create a more spacious and inviting feel. Keep only essential items like hand soap and a fresh set of towels.
Add some finishing touches: little details like fresh flowers, a scented candle, or a folded hand towel can really elevate the overall look and feel of the bathroom.

Remember, a clean and well-maintained guest bathroom can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. So take the extra time to give it some love before showings, and you may just see an increase in interest and offers on your property.

Attention all homeowners! Are you planning to give your home a fresh coat of paint?

Before you dive into the color options, let me introduce you to the 60-30-10 rule. This rule is a foolproof way to achieve a well-balanced and visually appealing color scheme for your home.

So what exactly is the 60-30-10 rule? It's a simple concept where you divide your color choices into three different percentages: 60%, 30%, and 10%. The dominant color should take up 60% of the space, while the secondary color should make up for 30% and finally, the accent color should be used in the remaining 10%.

Why is this rule important? Well, it helps create a cohesive and harmonious look throughout your space. It prevents one color from overpowering the others and instead creates a sense of balance and flow in the room. Plus, it makes choosing colors much easier when you have a specific formula to follow!

it's your friendly neighborhood real estate agent here. I want to share with you why May is my recommended time for some home maintenance.

As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, May is the perfect time to tackle those home maintenance projects that have been on your to-do list. Not only does it make your home look better, but it also helps to maintain and protect your investment.

So as we welcome in the month of May, let's take some time to give our homes some love and attention. Not only will it make your home look great, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is in top shape for the summer season.

Happy maintenance month!

Click to find out the value of your home!

Open shelving is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also adds functionality and maximizes space in any room. Say goodbye to cluttered countertops and hello to a stylish and organized space.

From kitchens to living rooms, open shelving is a versatile design element that can be incorporated in various ways to suit your personal style. You can display your beautiful dishes in the kitchen or showcase your favorite decor pieces in the living room. The options are endless!

Not only does open shelving add character and charm to your home, but it also gives the illusion of a larger space. This is especially beneficial for smaller homes or apartments.

Tell me if you would love it or leave it when it comes to open shelving in the comments.

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Are you in the process of moving and feeling overwhelmed by finding a reliable and efficient moving company? Look no further, because I am here to help as your trusted real estate agent.

I understand that relocating can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be with the right support. As an experienced agent, I have built relationships with reputable moving companies and can connect you with the perfect one for your specific needs.

From packing to transportation, my team and I will ensure that your belongings are safely and smoothly transported to your new home.

No need to worry about any extra fees or hidden costs, because we only work with transparent and trustworthy movers.

Let me take the weight off your shoulders and make your move a seamless and hassle-free experience. Contact me today for more information on how I can help you find the perfect moving company!

I am always looking for ways to help my clients take care of their homes. And what better way to do that than by tackling some home improvement projects on the weekend? Not only will these projects improve the appearance and functionality of your home, but they also show your home some much-needed love.

Remember, taking care of your home doesn't have to be a chore. It can actually be a fun and rewarding experience! So why not spend your weekend giving your home some TLC? Share your upcoming project in the comments!

Have you been thinking about selling? Been wondering how much you could sell your home for? Try my free home valuation tool, then give me a call to help you decide if now is a good time for you! https://www.kellyburrishomes.com/evaluation

Kelly Burris,Realtor ®
Realty Executives
828-320-2323