Author: Guest

How Can Estate Agents Better Utilise Social Media

Social media influences much of what occurs in the real world. People have forged glorious careers by working away online.

After all, young people flock to cyberspace for guidance from influencers and businesses. They are the future, and these habits will likely become more common. There’s no point denying it! Estate agents shouldn’t shun what’s coming, either.

Turbulent real estate and economic conditions are causing much anxiety among the public. If estate agents could step in and be an all-knowing, comforting presence, they’d undoubtedly put themselves in far better standing.

Social media is an instrumental tool for estate agents to get ahead during times of crisis. If you’re working in the industry, read on for tips on better utilising these digital platforms.  

Realise It’s Full Potential

Estate agents use social media for various things. It would help if you tried to understand the breadth of its potential in the context of being an estate agent first.

You can use social media for many things, including:

  • Collaborating with influencers
  • Engaging your community publicly.
  • Providing virtual tours and videos of your listings.
  • Linking to consumer-friendly content you’ve made; top tips, how-to articles, etc.
  • Creating and facilitating networking opportunities with industry peers.
  • Conducting market research to monitor competitor activities and consumer trends.

So, as you can see, social media is more than just a messaging platform. It can provide crucial insights and help you establish stronger foundations for your agency. Don’t underestimate the potential of social media!

Hire Expert Help

If you’re an expert in real estate, that can be enough. There’s a reason navigating social media can be a discipline all of its own. Should you try to master both, there may be limits on how much you can fulfil your potential in either world.

Fortunately, there’s help out there that specialises in providing strategies in social media for estate agents, getting them seen by more people. Every client of Distribute Digital is assigned a fully dedicated UK-based account manager. Full transparency is guaranteed from the beginning, with no use for contracts, and clear and concise communication is also a priority. Their services are well-reviewed by others they’ve worked with, and you can send them custom proposals for what you’d like to achieve through social media. 

Services like these can be multifaceted, too. They may also be able to help with designing and developing your website, Pay Per Click strategies on Google Ads, and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). SEO, in particular, is essential to have, as it ensures all of your social media content ranks as high as possible in Google search results, generating more clicks and conversions.

Rethink Controversial Platforms

Some organisations try to have a presence on as many social media platforms as possible. While it’s understandable to have that goal to boost visibility, it can risk complicating the picture.

Social media is under constant scrutiny. Questions are often being asked of key platforms about whether they can protect their users and more. Corrupt individuals can lead to some social media sites, and these cases have been well-documented in the mainstream media.

It may be best for your agency to avoid platforms known to generate immense controversy. For all their failings, Facebook and Instagram may be okay to have a profile for your agency featured, but anywhere known to generate hateful content en masse should be avoided. There’s no sense clambering aboard a sinking ship or risking being associated with unethical characters.

These decisions are about more than your agency’s reputation, but accessibility too. People are trying to avoid toxic cyberspaces more than ever before. Spend more time and resources investing in social media platforms that are popular, uplifting, and much-loved. That focused approach will generate the most promising results for your estate agency.

Establish Storytelling Appeal

Real estate can either be a dry and tedious subject of discussion or something that’s fascinating and highly appealing to all. There’s a fine line here, but the distinction often comes down to hope you broach the topic.

Contrary to what many might believe, the power of storytelling can shape a social media strategy, helping people become more immersed in your area of expertise. While some people use these platforms as a way to read snippets of information, others are determined to immerse themselves in new possibilities and modes of thought.

Of course, real estate as an industry lends itself to storytelling particularly well. Homes are often associated with lifelong aspirations and long-held aesthetic desires. They can encapsulate the dreams people have cherished all their lives. Estate agents often lean into these ideas with their property listings, using descriptive language that doesn’t just advertise a home but also sets a scene.

Keep all of this in mind when you’re fine-tuning your estate agency’s approach to social media. Talk about the history of old buildings and architecture. Develop posts on the success stories of willing past clients and integrate their comments into the copy. Detail renovation projects from conception to completion. It can all make your agency’s social media profile a bit more magical!

Author: Ryan Byrne

Affordable Real Estate Top Cities for Buying Property Under 300k

The most stunning areas to live in the United States are not necessarily affordable. Property costs are rising in many major U.S. cities, but there are still numerous cities where property can be purchased for an affordable price. In this article, we will take a look at the best cities for buying property under 300K.

How To Choose The Right City With Property Under 300K?

Moving to a new city is not something you should take lightly. Just because a place is affordable does not imply that you will actually enjoy living there. Therefore, take your time and consider the advantages and disadvantages of a place before moving out of the city. When selecting a city, take into account the transport options you require, the style of property available, and the activities you enjoy.

What is appropriate for another family might not be appropriate for your family. As long as you pick a place that suits your demands, you can locate the ideal area to live in without going over budget. The below table will help you decide the right city for you with a property under $300,000, as some affordable cities will be listed here.

CityStateMedian List Price
Las VegasNevada$289,000
WedgewoodTexas$288,000
ClevelandOhio$98,708
Kansas CityKansas$171,038
JacksonvilleFlorida$295,278

5 Beautiful Cities for Buying Property Under $300,000

Las Vegas, Nevada

Median list price: $289,000

Photo by Brayden Law on Pexels

When you hear “Las Vegas,” you might immediately visualize the image of “Sin City.” In truth, Las Vegas is a city surrounded by stunning red rock canyons and hiking trails. There is something in Las Vegas for everyone, from shopping and gambling to live shows and world-class restaurants. 

White sand beaches and the numerous casinos in Las Vegas are also popular among the city’s residents. Those people who don’t want to play gambling have a lot of other options. Shopping is a well-liked activity here, and you will find out lots of boutiques and malls. Las Vegas’s cost of living is almost 10% less than the national average. 

Also, the city’s unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is quite low. Single-family houses are the most common type of house in Las Vegas, accounting for 77.6% of all houses that are on the list for sale right now.

Wedgewood, Texas

Median list price: $288,000

Photo by Talena Reese on Pexels

Wedgwood, Fort Worth, is the ideal place to buy houses and real estate properties as it has green spaces, a welcoming atmosphere, and lovely parks. With its strong sense of community, a wide range of local amenities, and great schools, the lively and well-established community of Wedgwood provides its people with a great quality of life. 

You will be delighted to know that there are luxurious brick houses with all the amenities of modern living available to buy. Homes for sale in Wedgwood, Fort Worth, have conventional yet fashionable ranch-style designs and cozy attached garages.

Cleveland, Ohio

Median list price: $98,708

Photo by benjamin lehman on Unsplash

In addition to being affordable, Cleveland is a young city as well. Its median age is about 36, which is a little lower compared to the national average. Cleveland stands out because of its liveliness. The city is well-known for its numerous cultural attractions, which include the renowned Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

It has developed into a center for several important industries, including metal manufacturing, information technology, bio-health, and automotive manufacturing, which are luring families and boosting the regional economy. 

For those who enjoy nature, a vast network of nature preserves surrounds the city and encompasses the Lake Erie beaches. The Cleveland Metroparks system has over 300 miles of horse and bicycle trails, walking, as well as nature centers, picnic spots, fishing areas, and golf courses. 

Kansas City, Kansas

Median list price: $171,038

Photo by Taylor Hunt on Pexels

One of the most reasonably priced cities in the country, Kansas is home to entertaining activities, excellent museums, friendly people, and delicious barbecues. Kansas City is a good illustration of how the Midwest has some of the cheapest areas for first-time homebuyers. With median listing prices under $200,000, this area can be perfect for buyers like you who have a tight budget.

Also, if you work in the healthcare industry, then it will be even better for you. The largest sector in Kansas City, Kansas, is health care. Manufacturing and transportation are other important industries in this region due to the location and available space.

Jacksonville, Florida

Median list price: $295,278

Photo by Lance Asper on Unsplash

Jacksonville is situated on the Atlantic Coast, which is in the northeastern part of Florida. Health and biomedical, advanced manufacturing and logistics, and financial services are important industries in Jacksonville. 

The Mayo Clinic, Citibank, UPS, Bank of America, AT&T, and other well-known enterprises have corporate offices in this city. Here, the job market is expanding, and housing costs are lower than the national average.

You have it now! The best 5 cities in the U.S. for property purchases under 300K. These cities are fantastic locations for buying a vacation home as an investment or for settling down. Tourists and netizens who visit these five extraordinary and affordable locations, all admire them similarly.

Author: Shannon Quantock

Which Rooms Is Herringbone Floor Best For? We Explore

When it comes to floors, the Herringbone variety is exceedingly stylish. You certainly wouldn’t want your shed fitted with this flooring!

Herringbone floors are patterned in a specific way, too. They emulate a chevron-like arrangement of blocks, creating a style of flooring reminiscent of parquet finishes. Some outlets have labelled these statement floors as a ‘must’ for homeowners, so it’s worth knowing more.

Consequently, Herringbone floors typically feature in rooms that are aimed to look particularly sophisticated, lavish, and extravagant. They’re also available in various finishes, making them more suitable for more rooms than one might think. Oakwood, laminate, and LVT looks can be chosen from, lending themselves to either contemporary or traditional touches.

So, which rooms are most suitable for the upgrade? Read on for some answers.

The Kitchen

Extravagance might not seem like a no-brainer for kitchens at first. However, these spaces can be incredibly stylish – especially with a Herringbone floor in the mix.

Why? Well, Herringbone floors can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They’re immensely durable, so the floor won’t be ruined if you drop or spill anything. Additionally, Herringbone floors are very easy to clean, so you don’t need to worry about irreversible damage or destruction in most cases. The kitchen’s a practical area, so everything inside it must be sturdy and robust in the event of occasional mishaps.

There’s also the case that Floors Direct features an example of Herringbone flooring in a kitchen on their website, which looks magnificent. It’s an arte square oak white laminate finish that oozes sophistication. They have other options, though, that will look just as wonderful in a kitchen. Frequent price drops and free delivery services mean Herringbone floors are more attainable than ever!

Bathrooms

Obviously, kitchens and bathrooms can be made of similar materials. If there’s a throughline or theme of aesthetics in the home, it can likely be pinpointed in these areas.

Bathrooms can either be bland and generic or be lush, relaxing spaces that emulate sophisticated spa settings. Spa bathrooms have been a breakout decorative theme in recent years as more people crave an escape, a way to press pause on hectic lifestyles. Herringbone floors can be a part of that, selling a setting far removed from daily life’s trials and tribulations.

Because Herringbone floors are exquisite, they can sit alongside marble and ceramic without any issue too. Once again, the easy-to-clean factor is another big justification for why these floors can also be well-utilised in a bathroom.

Living Rooms

Everybody should be able to enjoy Herringbone floors. Given that living rooms are typically the most popular and used home areas, it makes sense to feature them there too.

Moreover, considering people are trying to make their bathrooms as cosy as their living rooms, Herringbone floors could be one of the crucial threads that perfectly knit the two spaces together, along with the kitchen too.

However, it’s also true that Herringbone floors can boost property value too. Using them elsewhere is viable, but as the living room is typically the largest in a home, you’ll get more mileage out of this perk if you double down on sophistication here. That’s well worth remembering too!

Author: Ryan Byrne

Creating A Safe Fire Exit Route In Your Commercial Building

Many firms do everything they can to prevent a fire. It’s right that they’d wish to protect everybody on their premises.

However, despite their best efforts, bad luck can still strike. Moreover, people can underestimate the damage fires can cause to businesses. Because these premises are often full of flammable materials and hazardous substances, a blaze can tear through these areas rapidly. Such instances aren’t all that uncommon, either.

Consequently, it would help if you had a plan for an emergency exit strategy in place. They’re not easy to put together, especially if your commercial premises is rather complicated in design. So, without further adieu, here’s a quick guide to creating a safe fire exit route in your business premises.

Evaluate Your Building

You can’t create a safe fire exit route on a whim. You need to completely understand the assignment, and that means thoroughly understanding the layout of your commercial building.

Questions you should be asking here include:

  • Which areas of the building increase the risk of fire? Electrical outlets, flammable substances and materials, and areas where trips could occur all heightened present risks in a fire-related emergency.
  • Are any access points too narrow for all to pass through? Older buildings, in particular, can be harder to navigate and may cause congestion during an escape.
  • If you’ve established a primary fire exit route, can you establish a secondary option too? There can be many reasons the main route becomes inaccessible during a fire, so backup plans are essential. If the building is large enough, multiple exits must also be established.
  • Is disability access sufficient? Perhaps some routes involve stairwells while others don’t. Ramps may need to be installed and protected. Fire safety wardens may need areas to help and coordinate any disabled people.

Your safe fire exit route should ideally be one of many, with the specific needs of individuals taken into account at every stage. Keeping the layout of your business premises is the first step in that process, as those considerations will help you account for everybody.

Look Into Fire Stopping

Some people think fire exit routes are just regular passageways leading to an assembly point outside. However, you can do more with them than that.

LFS work with London businesses to provide fire stopping services. Fire stopping equipment is installed throughout a building to contain a blaze and stall its spread. It can make walls, floors, and roofs more resistant to flames. In turn, fire stopping equipment help creates a safe fire escape route, as well as a secure passage for emergency services. These providers work closely with top-tier manufacturers to ensure everything is up to standard.

We’re mentioning fire stopping early because it’s a legal requirement in the UK’s Passive Fire Protection laws. Usually, the owner or landlord is obligated to carry out these measures, but as you can see, they keep people safe too. So, if you don’t occupy either of these roles, and things aren’t up to standard, it’s recommended that you speak up and highlight your concerns.

Clearly Display Fire Signage

Your staff may have familiarised themselves with the designated fire exit route in your commercial building. Still, that’s not enough.

People can be very forgetful in an emergency, despite training they may have done months prior. Moreover, guests to your premises may be unfamiliar with the procedure too. So, fire signage becomes integral here, serving useful reminders of many factors like:

  • Discouraging people from using lifts while a fire is underway.
  • Sounding the alarm if one is part of the fire exit route.
  • Leaving the building by the nearest available fire exit only.
  • Directing people to the nearest assembly point.
  • Instructing people how to use fire safety equipment in the unlikely event they’re in immediate peril along the safe fire exit route.

Some of the information can seem like common knowledge, but it can be immensely reassuring during extreme stress. At that time, people need clarity of thought to exit the building calmly and safely, and that’s what notices can provide. Keep the area around fire safety signs clear and clean.

Install Easy to Open Fire Doors

While the doors can be heavy and hard to shift in some settings, it’s vital that different types of people can use these doors without issue should an emergency happen. Otherwise, their escape may be stalled with perilous consequences.

In 2018, reports surfaced about fire doors that older people couldn’t open in Honely, West Yorkshire. Even if your staff is made up of younger people, older clients and customers may still be occupying the same building. Obviously, 2018 was awhile ago now, but it’s hard to imagine every business out there has accessible fire doors.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to assess the accessibility of yours. Remember, it’s not just about people getting out, either. Opening these doors can sometimes trigger fire alarms, which makes everyone else safer, too, if they can get out sooner for hearing it.

Establish the Assembly Point

You won’t be shocked to learn that fire assembly points should be established outside the building and away from fire hazards. The ideal location should be large and at least 50ft away from the building. More needs to be considered here, though.

Emergency responders may need to urgently give workers and guests medical attention at the assembly point. It is essential to ensure they can easily find the place and have easy access and enough room to provide that care. If an assembly point is a small tucked, away area with no road access, it’s a bad move. You shouldn’t use car parks, either.

Signs should clearly mark the area as a fire assembly point ahead of time. That way, there’s no doubt about where people should be. People will learn that soon enough if they follow the signs mentioned earlier in the article, but nevertheless, that final confirmation is essential for all.

Fire assembly points should always have storage areas with water and first aid kits on standby. Fire and health and safety officers may not be able to treat everyone effectively after a fire, depending on the severity of their condition. Still, there should be enough supplies for people to provide the best care they can until emergency services arrive.

Author: Ryan Byrne

If you are serarching for the cheapest houses, have a look at our listings.

The Price of Luxury: How Much Does It Really Cost to Live in a High-End Condo?

What makes a condo luxurious?

A luxury condominium is equipped with modern and expensive finishes. Its build quality is always superior. The house exhibits a tasteful architectural touch in every detail. Top-quality condominiums feature a residential experience that offers concierge services. They aim to give you elegance along with the practicality of living.

Costs to consider while buying a high-end condominium

Upfront cost

It is the initial cost of buying real estate. Such costs include fees related to inspection, appraisal, prepaid property tax, down payment, prepaid home insurance, earnest money, and all other closing costs. Closing costs are approximately 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. For new construction and high-end properties, the cost can exceed 5%.

Monthly Expenses 

The prime monthly expenses include mortgage and condominium insurance payments, association dues, and property taxes. Condo maintenance fees vary from $300 to $400 on average. As luxury condominiums are more in price, the expenses are expected to be higher than traditional home units. Principal or interest payments can add another thousand to the monthly expenses. 

Amenities

There are additional costs to consider when owning a property, especially when it is expensive. Depending on the amenities included, the fees charged can wildly swing, directly impacting the maintenance cost of condos. A high-end condo property is never in shortage of amenities which can hit the charge of $1000. 

The True Cost Living In A Luxury Condo

To discover the true costs of living in a luxury condo, we conducted research throughout different cities in the US. The analysis will impart the names of five developers who are preeminent and exceptional at building luxury condominiums.

ETCO Condo

ETCO Homes serves an outstanding collection of condos in Southern California. The unique floor plans with excellent community arrangements facilitate an extensive group of buyers in Los Angeles. ETCO’s One Coast is an exclusive complex of 53 premium condo suites in Pacific Palisades. Units with 5 beds and 5 baths have two different sizes of floors. But it won’t cost further if you choose 4.8k sq.ft.

BedBathFloor Size Sq.Ft.Price
55F 11/24,8343.499M
55F 11/24,3843.95M
33F 11/23,4883.55M

Aruba Condominium

If you are looking for the right combination of expediency and splendor, Aruba Condominium comes to mind first. Daytona Beach Shore’s best indoor suit experience awaits you at Aruba Condos. You can make peace with the serene atmosphere after a day full of fun beach activities.

The Aruba Condominium is well known in Atlantic Avenue for offering spacious condos at a good price. It is not ordinarily expected to find beautiful seafront living accommodations at prices below $900K. While each of their condo units, combining 3 beds and 2 baths on a 1380 Sq.Ft. space is listed at $649.9K. Moreover, these condos have offered the lap of luxury in the name of amenities so that you do not have to payout extra bucks on taking outward service. 

Aspen Heights Condos

Austin’s luxury market skyrocketed during the pandemic. To ensure assistance toward the demand, Aspen Heights Partners create the finest places to call home in the form of fully integrated condos. The team offers unbeatable luxury through ‘The Independent’ which is a 58 -story, 370-unit condo property. The real estate is also known as Jenga Tower whose design is inspired by the bold pneuma of Austin. There are one to four bedroom units ranging from 750 to 3,000 sq.ft. in The Independent. The available units are being sold on a considerate price scale of $799K to $1.835M. 

Luxury Real Estate Sales Rose 42% During Pandemic. Source: Redfin Analysis of MLS Data

Dezer Condo

It is no secret that Dezer is one of the leading condo developers in Miami. Dezer Development is a city-based builder that covers 27 acres of seashore land in Sunny Isles Beach. The coastal neighborhood is supposed to be recreated with luxury condo buildings. With their creative housing insight, Dezer developed an 813-unit luxury condominium Trump Towers, a series of three separate towers winging 45 stories. The units are in a variety of rooms and prices.

BedBathFloor Size Sq.Ft.Price
221,4631.199M
231,9351.9M
33F 11/22,5581.995M

Bishard Condo

Virginia Beach is the land of high-end townhomes and condominiums. The blossomy coast has been served with quality condos by Bishard Homes for more than two decades. Bishard offers luxury in its thoughtful architectural style incorporating Coastal and Southern Living. They cater to people of all income levels. If you choose the luxury home series, the price will hover between $900K and $2M.

Is living in a luxury condo worth the cost?

When you desire luxury, you should not be so solicitous about the cost. It is usual for a buyer to outlay a stream of cash flow when the property comes with all fulfillments. As you spend the money, a wide range of amenities arrive at your doorstep. A condo on the higher end of the spectrum provides you security of life, elegant community, easy maintenance, great location, modern vibe, in a word, total comfort.

Five Essential Steps for Anyone Starting Their Own Home Improvement Company

It might not be too crazy to say that there’s never been a better time to start a home improvement business in the UK. Well, yes, it’s true that anyone thinking about starting their own company right now is going to be a bit concerned. Everyone is worried about how much they’re spending because the cost of living keeps going up and up. And that means that all businesses are having to work harder than ever to hit their targets. And it’s worth noting that there have been some chaotic changes in basically every market you can name over the last couple of years. That includes the property market.

But lots of people are thinking about doing up their homes instead of moving into a new one precisely because the property market has been so turbulent. While home improvement has generally been a pretty steady industry, there’s good reason to think that it might see a bit of a boom in the months ahead. So yes, this could be exactly the right time to get your business up and running.

Identify Your Niche

Niching down might seem like a risky step to take when you haven’t even gotten started yet. Why would you want to limit your options when there are so many different areas of home improvement that you could explore? Well, the first thing to remember is that it’s always better to do one thing exceptionally well than it is to do a lot of things to a mediocre standard. The second is that you should remember that most people will be looking to do one job at a time, and there’s a good chance that they will be searching online for that specific thing. It will also help to build your reputation if you can start getting feedback online, which takes us to the next point.

Build Your Web Presence

Word of mouth is going to be invaluable if you’re starting a home improvement business. It’s great if you can start getting some referrals from happy customers. But you’re more likely to find that customers are heading online and doing “near me” searches. You’re going to need a website that makes a great first impression and shows people that you’re the real deal. You’ll also need to think about the best ways that you can demonstrate your expertise on your site. Google is always hard at work refining its algorithm. One of the things it prioritises is user experience, which means that your written content doesn’t just need to be full of relevant keywords, it also needs to be helpful. You could put together some video content and image galleries to show off the quality of your work. And while you’re at it, why not think about setting up some social media profiles? They’re not all going to be relevant (you may not need TikTok just yet), but you might be surprised by the number of customers you get from these accounts.

Remember To Put Safety First

Let’s not beat around the bush: safety should be a major priority. It’s not good enough to tell yourself that you’re a sensible person and that you wouldn’t create any unnecessary risk. When you go to work on another property, you are taking responsibility for everyone on the site. That doesn’t just mean you, that also means the people who are working for you, and it may include the property owners. You’ll need to ensure that you take every possible step to minimise the risk of injury, and you’ll also need to think about whether you and/or your employees need to do any additional learning. For example, most people are aware that asbestos is unsafe to be around. But do you know exactly what steps you and your colleagues will need to take if you work somewhere with asbestos on site? If you’re looking to boost your asbestos awareness, then get in touch with the team at NATAS. Their award-winning health and safety courses and training will help you to keep your risks to an absolute minimum.

Know Who Your Customers Are

Your niche and skills are obviously two of the most important factors, but you must not overlook your target audience. It’s important to be realistic about the type of work that will be most in demand in your location and among the kinds of people who are likely to be looking to do some home improvement. For example, given last year’s historic heatwave, a lot of UK homeowners will be thinking about how they can keep cool this summer. And with energy prices continuing to soar, they will also be thinking ahead to the winter and planning to insulate their properties more effectively. Given the current cost of living issues, you may find that repairs and renovations are in higher demand than extensions, for example. So, set aside some time for some good research. What kind of jobs are you going to be pitching for a few years down the line? If the answer is different to what you expected, it might be time to add some skills to your set.

Go Sustainable

Speaking of record-breaking heatwaves, everyone needs to be thinking a lot harder about how sustainable their businesses are. There will be a lot of pressure to show that you are taking climate change seriously from local authorities, not to mention potential clients and customers. You might find that you get a big boost if you can show that you’ve got a green strategy in place. So, think about using an electric vehicle, and look for recycled materials for your projects. Research greener alternatives that you can recommend to your clients that will keep their carbon footprints low as well as keep their energy bills down. This issue is only going to become more and more important over the next few years. You can save a lot of time and effort by thinking about it from day one.

Author: Ryan Byrne

If you are serarching for the cheapest houses, have a look at our listings.

5 Beautiful Ways to Upgrade Your Home

Upgrading your home does not have to mean hiring builders to spend months extending and improving your home. There are lots of ways you can make big changes without having to undergo the upheaval of a complete renovation. Here are five beautiful ways to upgrade your home.

Paint the Walls

Painting the walls will make a room look fresher and cleaner. You can update your home with a fresh coat of paint that matches your existing colour or go for a completely different colour to give your room a whole new look. One option that is very popular is to paint three of the walls in a single shade and then make a feature wall on the fourth using some vibrant wallpaper or an interesting pattern. Painting is one of the easiest DIY jobs to do and it is possible to finish a room or two over a weekend.

Replace the Doors

First impressions count and doors are the first thing your guests will see when they walk into a room. Therefore, it makes sense to upgrade your doors if you want that first impression to give off a wow factor. For example, oak internal doors look great and really elevate the look of a room. Oak doors can also improve the value of your home, making their purchase quite cost-effective. And with such a brilliant oak door selection available these days, you are likely to find something that will match your style and budget easily.

Invest In Some New Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings can change the appearance of a room quickly and easily. A splash of colour can be added with cushions or a bright rug. You could even change your soft furnishings to match your new wall colour.

Clever Use of Mirrors

Mirrors can be used to change the appearance of a room if they are put in the most appropriate places. For example, you can use mirrors to bounce light around the room and make your space look brighter by placing them opposite the light source. Place a mirror behind the sofa if you want to create an illusion of space in a small room.

Change the Lighting

Changing the lighting can make a huge difference to a room and it is not difficult to do. If you want to make your room look cosy and welcoming, invest in a couple of table lamps, and use these instead of your main light. This will create a traditional feel in the room, especially if you use vintage-style lamps. To create a more modern atmosphere, bright lights work well, so use spotlights placed around the room and position them on any focal points you want to create. For the best of both worlds, a dimmer switch is a good idea. This way you can change your lighting to match your mood.

Try some of these beautiful ways to upgrade your home and see how much difference they can make to your living space.

Author: Ryan Byrne

If you are serarching for the cheapest houses, have a look at our listings.

Five Ways to Make a Dark Room Appear Brighter

If you live in a house that is naturally dark, you may find it affects your mood. Dark rooms also feel colder than a bright, open space, even if the room is actually the same temperature. With rising gas and electricity costs, you could find that investing money in making your room brighter saves you money in the long run.

Choose Bi-Fold Doors

Bi-fold doors have become increasingly popular in recent years and one of the reasons is that they allow light to flood into a room. If you have a room that backs onto a garden, bi-fold doors could be an ideal solution to making a dark room brighter. Not only that, but it also makes your garden a more useable space that feels part of your home and increases the sense of flow which is so important in making a house feel roomy.

Add Skylights

Adding a skylight window (also sometimes called a flat roof window) will instantly make a room lighter and brighter. Roof windows are an excellent choice for extensions and there are a range of options available from budget choices to luxury products. Whether you’re watching the clouds float overhead, enjoying radiant sunshine or listening to the pitter patter of raindrops, you will feel closer to nature and be able to appreciate the glow, for flat roof windows bring both style and light to a room.

Mirror Magic

A strategically placed mirror can make a huge difference to the light level in a room. To take best advantage, hang a mirror opposite a source of natural light such as a window or door. This clever trick reflects the light around the room, making it appear brighter and more spacious – no wonder interior designers have been using this trick for years! For anyone on a tight budget this is well worth a try and also adds a feature to a wall that needs livening up.

Go All White

A pale colour palette is another go-to move for interior designers looking to make a space seem brighter. Brilliant white walls will reflect light and make a space seem airier, but if a room is particularly dingy, you may want to take things further with white flooring and furniture. Painted floorboards are on-trend right now and are an affordable option for people wanting a quick fix.

Avoid Clutter

Cluttered spaces and heavy, dark furniture can make a space feel cramped. If you think your belongings could be draining your space of much-needed light, it could be time for a clear out. Set aside a day to decide what can be got rid of and list on online selling sites or donate to charity. A minimalist approach isn’t for everyone, but it creates a brighter, streamlined look that will benefit a dark space.

Whichever option you choose, enjoy the benefits of extra light in your home. Not only can it boost your mood but it can also make you feel a renewed sense of pride for your living space.

Author: Ryan Byrne

If you are serarching for the cheapest houses, have a look at our listings.

Budget Friendly Homes In US: The Best Deals Under $300K

It should come as no surprise that affordable real estate is becoming harder and harder to come by. With the recent market inflation that drove the median home price up by nearly 45% from the end of 2019 to the end of 2022, it’s getting increasingly difficult to find a home that fits within a budget.

Fortunately, there are still several states in the US where you can find real estate for a excellent price. From coast to coast, the country is dotted with amazing towns and cities that offer affordable housing. Here are just a few states to find homes under $300,000:

Iowa

Featuring some of the most affordable real estate options in the country, the Hawkeye State is an excellent place to find homes for sale that won’t break the bank. The median home price in Iowa falls around 150K, which is roughly only 10% of the median household income. While there are a number of small hamlets and tiny towns peppered throughout the acres of farmland, quickly growing citites such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids offer big city options as well.

Top Citites in Iowa with Affordable Real Estate:

West Des Moines | Median Home Price: Approx. $270K

Considered one of the best places to live in Iowa, West Des Moines is a well-balanced urban suburban community. There are a number of quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods as well as a wide variety of bars, restaurants, coffee shops and more. Located just a few miles from neighboring Des Moines, West Des Moines is also a great option for commuters.

Sioux City | Median Home Price: Approx $190K

Found in northwest Iowa, Sioux City acts as a boarder to not only Iowa, but Nebraska and South Dakota as well. Home to roughly 85,000 people, budget-concious house hunters will be sure to find a bargin. From cozy bungalows to mid-sized single-family homes, there is also a healthy amount of variety to be found in the Sioux City real estate market. 

South Carolina

The Palmetto State is an excellent destination for home buyers looking for affordable real estate opportunities. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches and an overall lower cost of living, South Carolina is a place to find more than just amazing deals on homes for sale.

Top Cities in South Carolina with Affordable Real Estate:

Lake Greenwood | Median Home Price: Approx $270K

Despite seeing a slight increase in median home price since 2022, Lake Greenwood still offers a plethora of homes for sale under $300K. There are just over 22,000 people who enjoy the beautiful city where one will find a perfect blend of amenities as well as outdoor recreational space. 

Spartanburg | Median Home Price: Approx $290K

Another great location in South Carolina to find low priced real estate is Spartanburg. Set just north of Croft State Park, Spartanburg is a thriving and charming community that is steeped in history. Mixed throughout town, househunters will find a number of mature neighborhoods that are filled with large trees and quiet streets. 

Michigan

Michigan is another state that stands out when it comes to budget-friendly real estate. From Detroit to the Upper Peninsula, there are a variety of cities and towns where you can find homes for under $300K. Michigan residents are also able to take advantage of an income tax credit program, which makes it even easier to stay within budget while shopping for a home. 

Top Cities in Michigan with Affordable Real Estate:

Kalamazoo| Median Home Price: Approx $200K

Kalamazoo is often touted as one of the best places to live in Michigan, and with its vibrant downtown scene, it’s easy to see why. There are a variety of homes available in the area from charming older cottages to newer townhomes. Kalamazoo also provides residents with an array of cultural experiences that can’t be found elsewhere in the state. 

Traverse City | Median Home Price: Approx $250K

Tucked away on the coast of northern Michigan, Traverse City is an amazing town with a lot to offer. From incredible views of Lake Michigan and its own microbrewery scene to outdoor activities such as kayaking and mountain biking. Traverse City is a great option for those seeking a great home, an adventure on their budget. 

As you can see, despite what market conditions may seem, the country is still filled with plenty of towns and cities that provide exceptionally priced homes. Regardless of if you are a first time homebuyer looking for a chance to break into the market, or a repeat buyer looking to maximize your budget,  there is no shortage of locations to consider. 

Do your research, start touring homes and you may be pleasantly surprised at the number of amazing hidden gems that are out there for the taking. Be patient, plan and budget properly, and you’ll find yourself in a new home sooner than you think. 

Author: Shannon Quantock

How To Buy A Condo In The US and Rent It Out Fast

Buying a condo is a fantastic idea if you are looking to downsize from a large home or if you want to get a bit of an upgrade from a boring apartment. They have started to become more and more popular in the last few years, with so many people choosing to deal with a smaller place instead of worrying about all the extra repairs that might come along with owning a house. If you have thought about investing in some condos to use as rental properties, you should have a look at this great article to find out how to buy a condo in the US and rent it out fast. 

Condo Market In US

Current State of the Condo Market:

There are around 5 million condos in us which made it a billion dollar market. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), condos and townhouses accounted for 14% of all existing-home sales in 2022, up from 12% in 2021. This increase can be attributed to several factors, such as affordability, low maintenance, and urbanization. Tucson, Philadelphia, Oklahoma City, St. Petersburg and Torrignton are the five most demanding area to run rental condo business.

Condos are often more affordable than single-family homes, making them a popular choice for first-time homebuyers and downsizing seniors. Additionally, condos require less maintenance than a house, as the condo association is responsible for common areas and exterior maintenance.

Trends in the Condo Market:

One of the biggest trends in the condo market is the shift towards urban living. With more people moving into cities, the demand for condos in urban areas has increased. Developers are responding to this demand by building more high-rise and mid-rise condo buildings in urban centers. Another trend in the condo market is the rise of luxury condos with exclusive amenities, such as rooftop pools, fitness centers, and concierge services. These amenities can help differentiate a condo building from its competitors and attract high-end buyers.

Steps To Follow To Find and Rent Out A Condo Fast

Step 1: Figure out your budget and what you want to look for

Once you figure out how much you want to invest, you will be able to quickly narrow down the areas you are less likely to purchase. Condos can vary quite a bit in price from state to state, so think about how much you want to spend before you start looking. If you don’t know the exact number, talk to a financial expert, and they will be able to help you figure out what your finances will look like before you consider making a large investment.

Step 2: Figure out who you need to talk to

If you are buying a condo from an area that you are not local to, then you will likely need to work with a realtor to ensure that you are getting every step completed. Some places require you to work with a local property manager to ensure that your condos are being well taken care of, so you might need to consider talking to a property manager that works for the building. This all depends on what is required by the area you are purchasing from, so do as much research as you can to ensure you are meeting all of the requirements. 

Step 3: Make sure it’s worth it

If you see a fantastic price on a newly listed condo, you should make sure it’s going to be worth your money before you get too excited. The property value is much more important than you think, so have a look at whatever you can find out about the building it is located in. Some condo buildings are rife with issues that give them a bad reputation, and investing in these units will likely make you lose money. Check out the average prices for condos in the neighborhood and look up reviews on the building so you can see if there are any significant problems that might turn your investment sour. 

Step 4: Check out the neighborhood

One tip that is great for investors is to consider what the entire neighborhood looks like so you can get a better idea of what the property values will look like in the future. Places like Torrington are full of new stores, which shows the area will continue to rise in popularity, and that is great if you are looking to sell a condo in the future. If the neighborhood looks like it hasn’t had a new store in the last decade, then you should probably avoid it. These neighborhoods often deter new residents, so it will be much harder to rent out the condo, even if the building itself is in excellent condition. 

Step 5: Finalize the sale

Once you have found a condo you like, it’s time to make an offer and finalize the purchase. You can work with your realtor and decide what is a good price to offer but make sure you use the research you have done on the property value to decide on your final offer. A realtor will be able to help finalize the sale and pass the ownership over to you, even if you don’t live in the same town. Once you have finalized all of your paperwork, you can start getting your new condo ready for potential buyers. 

Step 6: Make it look great

After you have made your final purchase, you will likely want to do whatever you can to make sure it is rented out as soon as possible. If the condo is empty, consider hiring a professional to come in and stage it for photos so new renters can get a better idea of what the space will feel like. Homes that are staged rent far quicker than those that are left empty, and you will likely have a much larger renter pool to choose from if the condo is more appealing to a wider group of people. 

Step 7: Market it right

Now that you have gone through the purchase process, you can start to consider what you will need to do to make your condo appealing to new renters. Most buildings won’t allow you to make major changes, but you can still do the best you can with what you have by hiring a professional to give it a good image. Talk to a local photographer or videographer to get some great shots and video tours of the condo to make sure the listing stands out among others. 

Step 8: Keep up with it 

One major mistake many investors make when it comes to rental properties is forgetting about keeping up with them. If you can’t get there all the time, ask your property managers to give you updates on whatever they need to so you can make sure you are on top of things as much as you can be. There’s nothing like hearing a renter is moving out because of issues that could have been prevented if you had decent communication with your property manager. Do your best to stay updated on any issues or problems that might come up, so you can get them sold as soon as possible. 

Renting out a condo is one of the best ways to make a bit of extra income, and condos have become more popular than homes in many metro areas. They have become popular all over the country, with so many people choosing to reduce their overall expenses and ditching their large homes for smaller spaces which makes them perfect for anyone that is looking to invest. If you want to invest in some condos, now is one of the best times to do it, and there are plenty available all over the country, so you can find one (or a few!) that will fit your budget.

Author: Shannon Quantock