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Beatrice Bloom, Princeton Real Estate Agent

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BACK TO SCHOOL

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – August 14, 2019

BACK TO SCHOOL

It’s time to face facts: the carefree days of summer are coming to an end, and it’s time to start thinking about the kids going back to school. Here are some tips to help ensure the transition in your home is a smooth one: 

· Set up a family calendar. Coordinating each member’s individual schedules will help lessen the inevitably rocky transition back to a structured day.

· Go through closets and drawers. Getting these spaces organized before tackling back-to-school shopping will help determine which items are high priority and which can be delayed until the weather gets cooler.

· If you don’t have a mudroom, create a dedicated space (or personalized nook/cubby) near the door for each child’s school items. This will encourage kids to keep backpacks, outerwear and shoes organized to minimize that last-minute morning scramble.

And – most importantly – don’t forget to try to savor every last drop of these leisurely, long days and evenings of summer!

PREPARING TO CLOSE: CHECKING FOR OPEN PERMITS 

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – August 7. 2019

PREPARING TO CLOSE: CHECKING FOR OPEN PERMITS 

Congratulations – you have accepted an offer on your home! One of the most important – yet often overlooked – tasks on a seller’s “to-do” list is to ensure all permits related to prior improvements made to your home (such as renovations and additions) are closed out. This can be done in a few simple steps. 

First, visit www.princetonnj.gov and search for the “Princeton Request for Government Records” form (you can find the property’s lot and block information on your tax bill.) Once you submit the form, and the township has processed your request, they will send you a report. In the event there is an open permit, you will need to call the township to schedule an appointment for a final inspection, confirming all work has been completed and is in compliance.

Performing this crucial check early in the closing process will provide ample time to resolve any unexpected issues, offering peace of mind to all parties. 

HIRING A MOVING COMPANY

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – July 31, 2019

HIRING A MOVING COMPANY

There are so many things to think about when moving, it’s easy to forget about the crucial step of finding the right moving company. Here are some tips to assist you through the process: 

1. Start by looking at online reviews. The Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) and American Moving and Storage Association (moving.org) are two good resources.

2. There is nothing quite as valuable as other people’s experiences. Get recommendations from friends and family; these are people you know who will share the good AND the bad. Be sure to ask them questions like, “Was the estimate     accurate? Did anything break or go missing? Were your belongings delivered on time?”

3. Interview several moving companies online, via email or over the phone to get preliminary quotes. Take time to weigh the pros and cons of each before proceeding.  

4. Be sure any moving company you are considering is licensed and insured.

Once you have done your initial screening, invite 2-3 companies into your home so that they can see your home’s contents and provide you with a written estimate (the estimates are generally based on the weight of your items and distance of your move.) 

COOLING YOUR HOME DURING HOT SUMMER MONTHS

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – July 24, 2019

COOLING YOUR HOME DURING HOT SUMMER MONTHS

We all love the comfort that a cool home provides us as shelter from these hot summer days. Consider these tips to make sure your air conditioner is efficient and working properly.

· Change your filters every six months or as needed.  Filters can become clogged causing your system to work harder.

· Have your system serviced by a licensed HVAC professional. They can inspect, clean and tune up your unit for maximum efficiency.

· Keep your unit out of direct sun.  Shaded space is naturally cooler. Be sure landscaping is not too close to the unit as good airflow is a must.

· Consider using a programmable thermostat that has smart controls saving you money by learning your personal usage patterns for best efficiency.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND YOUR HOME

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – July 17, 2017

LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND YOUR HOME

Summer is the perfect time to really look at the state of your landscaping.  Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, said “ Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” This certainly reins true in the creation of your outdoor space.  Defining your desires for the space is the first step. Do you prefer a manicured and formal yard or more of a free form with wildflowers and open space?  

Some things to consider are the cost of both creating and maintaining your landscape. What is the desired functionality? Once you have defined your desire be sure to plan for all seasons.  Plant annuals and perennials to create three seasons of beauty. Consider what you want the focal points to be. Will you have paths to meander through that connect different types of flowering beds and other specimens?

One thing for sure is that beautiful and well maintained landscape increases both curb appeal and your home’s value.

RETIRED? GEARING UP FOR RETIREMENT?

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Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – July 10, 2019

RETIRED? GEARING UP FOR RETIREMENT?

It is never too early to prepare for your housing needs.  If your current community is where you want to enjoy your Golden Years, you may want to think about what is needed to age in place. Things to consider are one floor living, walkability to shopping, places of worship or cultural activities. Some individuals opt for downsizing while others make modifications to their existing homes in order to accommodate their needs.  

Will loved ones be visiting and need a place to stay? Will you need supplemental income and consider renting space to increase cash flow? Or will you need modifications to improve accessibility. If so it is important to speak with a professional to anticipate both cost and timing.

Beatrice Bloom