Jill Phillippo - Lake League Real Estate

Happiness isn't a destination; it's a beautiful dance between the joy of achieving your goals and the electrifying thrill of pouring your heart into creative endeavors.

Happiness is when you see your hard work come to fruition and in the exhilarating process of imagining, innovating, and making your dreams a reality.

So, savor every step of your journey, whether a big milestone or a small creative spark because true happiness is woven into the tapestry of your everyday life.

How do you find happiness in your achievements and creative ventures?

Holiday tablescapes can be simple and yet beautifully festive! Before you dive into Pinterest and end up overwhelmed, consider these easy, budget-friendly ways to dress up your dining space for the season:

🍽 Choose neutral linens that fit any occasion. Gold or understated patterns can seamlessly blend with any holiday theme.
🍽 Embrace the beauty of nature. Order a festive floral arrangement or use fresh greenery to set a warm and inviting scene.
🍽 Layer up! Begin with chargers, followed by dinner plates, linens, and place cards. Small napkins between plates can add an elegant touch.

Here's to a holiday table that's stylish, simple, and so you!

Let's dive deeper into the world of real estate terms! 🏡 'Contingent' and 'Pending' are often used interchangeably, but there's a distinction:

Contingent means an offer has been accepted, but certain conditions (like a successful home inspection or buyer's financing approval) must be met before the sale moves forward.

Pending suggests that all contingencies have been addressed and the deal is moving towards closing.

Knowing the difference is essential, especially if you're eyeing a property. Stay informed and navigate your home-buying journey with confidence!

How much can you afford when it comes to buying a home? In addition to the price of the home, you need to take into consideration the:

1) Insurance

2) Utilities

3) Maintenance

4) Property Taxes

5) HOA fees

Don't worry, we'll work together to get you the best deal. Send over a DM and let's get this process started! 🏠

A healthy home is a happy home! 🏡

Here are a few ways to keep your home clean and your family healthy this holiday season:

🧼 Keep plenty of festive holiday soaps and hand wash in the bathrooms for guests. Try the Mrs. Meyers seasonal collection!
🧼 Consider freshening the air with essential oils or diffusing a cozy holiday scent.
🧼 Use a natural cleaner to keep countertops and surfaces free of germs and grime.
🧼 Get fresh air whenever you can! Keep windows open when temps permit or take daily fresh air breaks.

Comment your preferred products below!

The holiday hustle can be overwhelming. Remember, it's okay to pause, breathe, and prioritize self-care. Everyone deserves a quiet moment amidst the festive frenzy. 🌟

Cozy up with a glass of wine, warm up with some hot apple cider, or stroll hand in hand through scenic spots painted in autumn hues.

Fall is a great time to bring back date night and explore some of our most popular local spots before the weather gets colder.

What are the best spots for a date night around this time of year?

Saluting the brave and resilient souls who’ve served our nation with unwavering dedication. Your sacrifices are remembered and honored not just today but every day.

Happy Veterans Day to all heroes in uniform, past and present!

The best local photographers 📸

Did you get those fall family photos taken yet? 🍂 If you still need to book your annual holiday card shoot or an event photographer during the holiday season, then you're in luck because we have some of the most talented photographers here.

Need a recommendation? Reach out!

🏡 Prepping your home for showings? Keep it sparkling with these 5 quick tasks—all under 15 minutes!

Starting each day with a swift spruce-up makes the journey smoother and stress-free. Curious about more home presentation tips? Let's chat!

Today is for all the caffeine addicts out there! Happy Cappuccino day!

Gratitude overload! 🌟 Your referrals light up my business and my heart. Thanks for being a key part of my journey. Wishing you all warmth and joy this holiday season!

Fall is here with its crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy bonfires. Each element brings its own charm to this beloved season. What’s your favorite thing about fall: the refreshing breezes, heartwarming bonfires, or the colorful tapestry of leaves?

Nothing says fall like a front porch filled with flowers and pumpkins. What are some of your favorite fall flowers and decorations to get the holidays started?

Mastering the art of homeownership? Here's a checklist of things every homeowner should know how to do:

1. Replace HVAC filters for fresher air.
2. Unclog drains in an eco-friendly way.
3. Inspect your water heater - leaks and rust are a no-go.
4. Shut off your home's water supply.
5. Check your dryer vents to ensure they are lint-free.
6. Identify where the studs are in your walls.
7. Check caulking around windows and doors for snug seals.
8. Maintain clean, free-flowing gutters.
9. Inspect your roof for any pesky, damaged shingles.
10. Test your smoke and CO detectors.

Need any tips or tricks? Let's chat and elevate your home game.

Do you believe a home down payment is beyond your grasp? Let's bust that myth! 🏡

Many programs and options might be within your reach, turning homeownership from a dream into reality. That dream home? It might be just around the corner.

Let's chat and explore your options!

Happy National Cat Day! It's the purr-fect day to celebrate our cute feline friends! Realtor

It isn't unusual for a home with all the bells and whistles to draw offers from more than one buyer.

Here are a few things to consider when submitting a "winning offer" to secure your dream home and beat out the competition.

If you're on the path to becoming a homeowner, getting pre-approved is a crucial step that you shouldn't skip.

Why, you ask?

Well, during the pre-approval process, the lender will review your financial situation and credit history to determine the amount of money they're willing to lend you, as well as the interest rate and terms.

You'll be able to see how much you can borrow, what your monthly payments will be, and the interest rate you'll be paying. This process will save you time and prevent the heartache of falling in love with a home that's outside of your budget.

In addition, having a pre-approval letter can make your offer more attractive to sellers. It shows that you're a serious buyer and have already taken the necessary steps to secure financing.

This can also give you an edge in negotiations and increase your chances of getting a good deal. This is because when sellers are aware that a buyer has already been qualified for the offer amount, they may be more willing to negotiate and make some compromises to ensure a successful sale.

If you are in the beginning stages of shopping for a home and want more information about getting pre-approved, don't hesitate to reach out!

This evening I had the pleasure to attend a Lake Guntersville Chamber of Commerce event hosted by The Soak House & Soapery. If you haven't checked out this business yet and all the wonderful things they offer, I encourage you to do so. So many great packages that would make great gifts throughout the year for all occasions. What a beautiful spa it is!!! Thank you to the Chamber and to the Soak House for such a wonderful event!!

Happy National Pumpkin Day to my fellow pumpkin lovers!

SMALL BUSINESS SHOUT OUT!! 🙌

If you are searching for someone to tint your windows, please reach out to Miller Window Tint!!! Tasha is quick, professional, and truly the best!! Thank you so much Tasha for doing an excellent job!!

It's that time of year: time to talk fall home buying! The market is competitive and complicated right now, so let's simplify it for you as much as possible.

What questions do you have about fall home buying? Leave them in the comments or send over a DM to get some help!

Of course, you are! Call today if you're ready to own your dream home.

Top three tips for entertaining ⬇️

Has it been a while since you've invited friends over for dinner and drinks? If you're ready to start entertaining friends or family, here are some great tips.

⏩ Prepare as much in advance as possible. Also, the dishwasher should be empty when guests arrive -- this way, you can clean as you go!

⏩ Don't stress over decor -- set the table with some brightly colored cloth napkins or napkin rings to add a fancy touch.

⏩ Make it as easy on yourself as possible! If that means passing around a takeout menu and ordering a few of your favorite dishes, your guests won't judge you!

So, who wants to come over for dinner? 🍽🍷

Are you team black and white accents, or are you leaning towards nature-neutral vibes this season?

Share your style preference, and if it's something different, let's chat about it!

Who doesn't love all things fall? Any excuse to drink PSL and wear all the fall clothes. What's your go-to item? It's chunky sweaters for me!

Do you have family or friends moving but don't know what to get them as a housewarming gift? Follow the steps below to get them the perfect gift for their new home.

Step 1: Find the new homeowner's preferred store for home goods.

Step 2: Start with a decorative bin or basket and fill it with new homeowner essentials: wine or champagne, scented candles, fancy cleaning products, a comfy throw, a miniature plant or succulent, and maybe even a gift card you know they'll need.

Step 3: Present your gift!

Easy enough, right? Comment below on the best housewarming gift you gave or received.

“How much should I budget for closing costs when I buy a home?”

The answer depends on what your budget is, but this is a really good way to estimate it!

Your agent will also be able to help you figure out how much to budget for depending on your unique situation.

Happy Pasta Day!

What's your favorite pasta dish? The "pastabilities" are endless!

Looking to buy your first home? Make it a breeze, not a burden! 🏡 Here's a path to ease your journey:

1. Stash that down payment in a high-yield savings account, away from temptation.
2. Hold onto your full-time job until the house keys are yours.
3. Be credit-wise: Keep monthly card use under 10% to protect your score.
4. Prepare for appliance emergencies with a separate home maintenance fund.

Follow these steps and turn homebuying hurdles into triumphs!

What are you reading this fall? Building up my reading list for those cooler days indoors by the fire and would love to know your recommendations.

If you could only have one type of dessert for the rest of your life, what would it be? The possibilities are endless!

Celebrate national dessert day with your favorite dessert!

Let's be honest, it also means you probably need to move.

Comment below or send a DM if you need help finding a home that isn't haunted!

Embracing the autumn spirit? Whether grand and gourd-geous or petite and charming, pumpkins can wonderfully transform any space.

From tabletops to entryways, pumpkins of all sizes add that perfect seasonal touch. Let every nook celebrate fall!

When the pumpkins are out, it can only mean one thing, Halloween is almost here!

What's your preference, painted or carved pumpkins?

Home Buyer Alert 📣

Taking the leap into homeownership?

Remember: a larger down payment can significantly reduce your long-term financial obligations. Make each dollar count!

Dreaming of a fresh start? Remember, change is in your hands. Unlike trees, you're free to move and grow. If your surroundings don't spark joy, it's time to take action.

Whether it's a new home, a fresh environment, or just a new perspective, you can craft the life you envision.

Don't let hesitation dim your shine. Take that leap towards your aspirations, and see the magic unfold. 🏡✨