Hi First name / friend!
 
It's officially PSL season  (I haven't yet ordered a Pumpkin Spice Latte, unpopular opinion-they aren't my favorite)!  Hopefully this heat wave is over- officially ready for sweater weather to stay! 
 
Here's the October Update! 🍁
 
We're swinging by to share top upcoming events, what to do if your equity rich, info on MOBA Fall Parade of Homes Event, market updates and what's upcoming in the 402!
 
If you have questions about anything real estate related in today's market, give us a call! We'd love to chat! 
 
upcoming events 

JUNKSTOCK 
October 6-8. More Details HERE
 
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FALL PARADE OF HOMES 
October 14-15 & 21-22: More info HERE
Are you one of those people who likes to explore beautiful homes and get ideas for designs, staging or learn more about the builders in town? Then you'll love the lineup happening with metro Omaha Builder's Association the next two weeks? Click on the picture below for the full list of home builders participating and more! 
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october home reminders!

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Hit reply if you want the full 12 month home reminder checklist! 
WELCOME HAYLEY! NEW AGENT TO THE TEAM! 

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Hayley may be new to Toast, but she is not new to the real estate industry! Licensed since 2017
 
Contact info: 
Hayley Fleissner 
402-640-2171
hayley@toast.realestate

this could Majorly affect your home value 
Today, we want to shed light on an important topic that can significantly impact the value of your home: remodeling and renovations. Before you embark on any updates, it's crucial to understand which improvements truly add value and which ones may not yield the desired return on investment.
 
Value-Adding Updates:
 
1. Kitchen Renovation: The heart of any home, the kitchen, can make or break a sale. Upgrading your kitchen with modern appliances, quality countertops, and stylish cabinetry can significantly enhance your home's value.
 
2. Bathroom Enhancements: Bathrooms are essential spaces for prospective buyers. Consider adding new fixtures, updating the flooring, and enhancing the overall aesthetics to create a spa-like experience that buyers will love.
 
3. Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, and a well-maintained exterior can greatly increase your home's value. Focus on landscaping, fresh paint, and a welcoming entrance to create an inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.
 
4. Energy-Efficient Upgrades: In today's eco-conscious world, energy efficiency is highly valued. Consider installing energy-saving appliances, LED lighting, and insulation upgrades to reduce utility costs and attract buyers looking for environmentally friendly features.
 
5. Open Floor Plans: Knocking down walls to create an open, flowing space can dramatically transform the feel of your home. Buyers often seek open floor plans that promote connectivity and create a sense of spaciousness.
 
6. Smart Home Technology: Integrating smart home features, such as automated lighting, security systems, and thermostats, can enhance the appeal of your property. Buyers are increasingly drawn to the convenience and comfort that smart homes provide.
 
Updates that May Not Add Value:
 
1. Overly Personalized Designs: While expressing your unique style is important, highly personalized designs may not resonate with every buyer. Opt for neutral color palettes and timeless finishes that appeal to a broader audience.
 
2. Swimming Pools: While pools can be a source of enjoyment, they don't always provide a significant return on investment. Many buyers see them as high maintenance and potentially limiting for families with young children.
 
3. Home Office Conversion: With the rise of remote work, home offices have become more desirable. However, converting a bedroom into an office may limit your pool of potential buyers who need the extra bedroom space.
 
4. High-End Luxury Upgrades: While high-end finishes can be impressive, it's important to consider the value they add in relation to your home's overall market value. Over-improving your home for the neighborhood may not yield the desired return.
 
home equity rich?

One of our agents Mark made a great video summarizing how you can use the equity in your home: 
  • Pay off other debt.
  • Purchase investment properties with it
  • Upsize
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What's ahead?
 
Fall:
Typically, the market picks up in the fall. More sellers list their homes for sale than in July/August, but there is also an influx of buyers.
 
I think (I HOPE) we'll see a little more inventory in the next 2 months, but there will also probably be a slight uptick in buyers.
 
Winter:
The end of November and December takes us into the winter market, which is usually a bit slower. There will be fewer homes for sale, but also less buyers to compete with.
 
Generally, buying a home in fall gives you more options, but winter might give you more negotiating power with sellers.  We'll see what this year brings, and every local area is different! 
 
 
C H E E R S! 
Ashley
and the Toast Team! 

Curious What is your home worth? Check out our great tool and monitor its value monthly!   It's our favorite free tool! 
 
Or
 
 
Where Every Closing is Cause for Celebration! 🥂
 
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Contact: 402.618.5732
Email: Ashley@toast.realestate