Don't forget the Insurance

Remember to factor in the costs of homeowners insurance if you are planning to purchase real estate in the near future.

In addition, it is a good idea to check in with your insurance agent once a year if you already own real estate and have a homeowners policy.  You will want to make sure your agent knows of any material changes (such as a new kitchen or bathroom addition) in your property since the previous year.  You will want to inform your agent of any sheds, outbuildings, swimming pools etc. that have been added to the exterior of your home.

Here is an excellent article on the subject of insurance protection for your real estate.

If you are planning on buying or selling a home in the near future,  call me today.  I am here to help!

                                                          Thank you

                                                        Carla Brooks
                                                    brkslong@aol.com
                                                       703-577-4960

What to do with an asymmetrical wall

One of the decorating challenges many homeowners/renters face: what to do with an asymmetrical wall.  How awkward the room can feel with one side of a doorway or fireplace twice as wide as the other side.  And how many years will the room feel awkward unless one consults a design specialist and or is particularly savvy in the world of design?

Ann Drake of the blog On Sutton Place featured her own asymmetrical wall in the recreation room of her home.  The post can be found here.  Pictures from the transformation are as follows:

Selling a home is about the feeling a potential buyer has when they walk through your door.  If they feel the warmth and potential to make the house their home, they will most likely write a contract offer.  

Call me today if you are planning on selling your home, I can assist with the market preparation.

Thank you

Carla Brooks

703-577-4960 

brkslong@aol.com

Need a Bathroom refresh that can be done in one afternoon?

Perhaps you have guests coming for the weekend, are entertaining or just want to change the look in your bathroom.  Accessories can go a long way in adding life and current design trends to your bathroom.  Curtains, rugs, paint, and hardware can all be purchased at your local hardware store.

Maria Killam in her blog, Color me Happy, has a post today on updating a bathroom with dated shower doors.  The post can be found here.

Just love the results!

If you are planning on selling your home, call me today for excellent staging suggestions.

Thank you

Carla Brooks

703-577-4960

brkslong@aol.com

Relocating the First Time Buyer

Are you relocating to the Northern Virginia area and trying to find a place to live?  Whether renting or buying, the task can be overwhelming.

I have been working with relocation clients all through the winter months.  Coming into town and not knowing the "system" or a trusted agent to work with can result in wasted time on the road and making uninformed decisions.

Call me today for expert advice on buying or renting.  I can organize your itinerary and point you in the right direction! Here is an excellent article on relocation.  Asking the right questions of your employer is paramount.

                                                                Thank you

                                                              Carla Brooks
                                                              703-577-4960
                                                           brkslong@aol.com