Tammy Sandin | Bellabay Realty Blog

Tuesday, November 19, 2024   /   by Tammy Sandin

Holiday Safety Tips for Homeowners

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebrations, and spending quality moments with loved ones. However, with all the excitement, it’s easy for homeowners to overlook potential safety risks that come with holiday activities. Whether it's fire hazards from decorations or the increased risk of break-ins during holiday travel, taking precautionary measures can help ensure that the season remains both festive and safe.

This comprehensive guide provides homeowners with valuable tips for keeping their homes secure, ensuring that their holiday celebrations are worry-free.

1. Fire Safety During the Holidays
One of the most common hazards during the holiday season is the increased risk of house fires, often caused by holiday decorations, candles, or improper use of fireplaces. With colder weather and increased use of heating devices, taking fire safety seriously is critical.

a. Christmas Tree Safety
Choose a fresh tree. If you're opting for a real Christmas tree, make sure ; ...

Friday, November 1, 2024   /   by Tammy Sandin

November Newsletter: Fall Homeowner Tips & Maintenance, Local Events and More!

As the air turns crisp and leaves start to fall, November ushers in the cozy season, along with the need for some home prep before winter fully sets in. This month, we’re sharing helpful homeowner tips, a delicious fall recipe, upcoming local events, and a spotlight on a fantastic local shop. Let’s dive into the November edition of your homeowner newsletter!

1. Make Your Closet Look Bigger with These Simple Tricks

A well-organized and spacious closet is a dream for many homeowners. Creating the illusion of a larger closet isn't just about physical changes but also about how you perceive and organize the space. Small closets can feel much more open and functional by using smart visual tricks. For example, removing clutter and organizing your clothes in a way that minimizes visual noise can immediately make the space feel more spacious. When everything is arranged neatly, your mind processes the space as less crowded, even if the dimensions haven’t changed. These ...

Thursday, October 17, 2024   /   by Tammy Sandin

Don't LEAF it to Chance! Why a Home Inspection is so Important!

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make, and whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, a professional home inspection should be an essential step in the process. While it may be tempting to skip this step to save time or money, doing so could lead to costly problems down the road. Let’s dive into why a home inspection is so important and how it can protect your investment.
1. Uncover Hidden Issues
One of the biggest benefits of a home inspection is that it reveals potential problems that may not be visible during a typical walk-through. Even the most beautiful homes can have hidden issues lurking beneath the surface. Some of the most common problems discovered during inspections include:


Structural damage: Issues with the foundation, roof, or framing can be costly to repair and may affect the overall safety of the home.



Electrical problems: Outdated wiring, faulty electrical panels, or code violations ...

Tuesday, October 1, 2024   /   by Tammy Sandin

October Newsletter: Maximizing Curb Appeal in Autumn, Why Fall is an Excellent Time to Buy a Home, Contractor Tips, and More!

As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, the real estate market continues to offer great opportunities. Whether you're looking to spruce up your home’s curb appeal or dive into the market, this month’s newsletter has something for you. Let’s explore what October has in store!

1. Maximizing Curb Appeal in Autumn ??
Fall is a beautiful time of year, and it can also be a fantastic season to show off your home. Buyers are looking for warm, welcoming spaces, and with a little effort, you can boost your home's exterior appeal.
Embrace seasonal decor: Adding tasteful pumpkins, wreaths, or fall planters can give your home a cozy, inviting look.
Clean up fallen leaves: A well-maintained yard shows buyers you take care of your home. Rake leaves, trim hedges, and make sure walkways are clear.
Enhance outdoor lighting: With shorter days, make sure your property is well-lit with attractive outdoor lighting to guide visitors and highlight your home’s featur ...

Monday, September 16, 2024   /   by Tammy Sandin

Neighborhood Amenities That Boost Your Home's Value

When it comes to buying or selling a home, the value isn’t solely determined by the property itself. The neighborhood plays a significant role in shaping that value. Here’s a look at key neighborhood amenities that can enhance your home's value and appeal:
1. Proximity to Top-Rated Schools
For families with children, the quality of local schools is a top priority. Homes situated near highly-rated schools often see increased demand and higher prices. Schools with strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and a good reputation can make a neighborhood more attractive to prospective buyers. If you’re selling, highlighting the nearby educational institutions can give you a competitive edge.
2. Public Transportation Access
Easy access to public transportation can significantly boost a home's value. Commuters and city dwellers alike appreciate living in areas with convenient transit options, such as bus stops, subway stations, or train lines. This convenience ...
Bellabay Realty
7201 W Saginaw Hwy
Lansing, MI 48917
616-813-5522

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