Kelly Higgins Team

Setting a competitive price for a property is crucial to attract potential buyers quickly.

Pricing too high may deter interest, while pricing too low might undervalue the home. As your Realtor, I will conduct a thorough market analysis to determine a fair price based on comparable properties. Once listed, I'll monitor market feedback and buyer interest closely. If the property isn't garnering sufficient attention or offers, it may be necessary to adjust the price.

Responding to market feedback by making timely price adjustments can increase the likelihood of a successful sale. Have you been thinking of selling your home? Let's discuss how I can help.

Purchasing your first home is an exciting journey.

This checklist will provide perspective and help set expectations:
1. Get Pre-Approved: Secure mortgage pre-approval to know your budget and show sellers you’re serious.
2. Choose the Right Agent: I understand your needs and the local real estate market. I'll tailor a plan to ensure success with your real estate needs.
3. Define Your Priorities: List must-haves and nice-to-haves in your future home.
4. House Hunting: We'll attend open houses, explore neighborhoods, and I'll schedule viewings.
5. Make an Offer: Work with me to make a competitive offer based on market analysis.
6. Home Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection to uncover any issues.
7. Understand Closing Costs: Budget for additional costs like appraisal fees, title insurance, and attorney fees.
8. Final Walkthrough: Ensure the property is in the agreed condition before closing.
9. Close the Deal: Review and sign all necessary documents to finalize the purchase.
10. Move In: Plan your move and settle into your new home.

Understanding these steps will make your home-buying experience smoother and more enjoyable. Let's discuss your real estate goals.

Do any of my Easton friends have a son/daughter that can help a client with sorting & arranging some items in their home? Adults welcome too!

Closing day! I wish I could say that every deal is smooth as silk, but sometimes for reasons beyond control, they just aren't.... BUT... my sellers were amazing in doing what they needed to do to get this to the finish line. Now they can move on from the house they raised their family in to the next phase of life as downsizers. Hopefully that includes some relaxation and vacation time!
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Monroe to preserve 65 acres of Benedict family farm as open space | The Monroe Sun MONROE, CT --- A gap in a stonewall along 35 Old Newtown Road opens up to 65-acres of farmland that has been in the Benedict family for over 100 years. Rebecca Benedict Bottomley, who now lives in Massachusetts, remembers training and riding horses, and playing on the property with her brothers as c...

Technology is revolutionizing the real estate industry, streamlining transactions, and enhancing efficiency.

Virtual tours allow potential buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their homes, saving time and expanding reach. Digital signatures and online document management simplify paperwork, making transactions faster and more convenient. CRM systems improve communication between agents and clients, ensuring timely responses and personalized service. Big data analytics provide valuable insights into market trends, helping agents make informed decisions. Additionally, mobile apps and online platforms enable easy access to listings and instant updates, keeping clients informed throughout the buying or selling process.

These advancements are making the real estate process more convenient and efficient for all parties involved. Thinking of buying or selling a house? Let's talk.

Seating with storage not only adds functionality but also enhances style, providing clever solutions to keep your home organized while maximizing space.

Here are some innovative options:
• Kitchen Banquette: A cozy banquette in the kitchen offers a comfortable dining spot and includes hidden storage beneath the seat, ideal for stowing away essentials like table linens and kitchen gadgets.
• Storage Ottoman: Perfect for any living room, an ottoman with built-in storage holds extra pillows, blankets, or toys, keeping your space tidy and stylish.
• Outdoor Furniture with Storage: Outdoor seating with storage for cushions and patio essentials maintains a clutter-free environment and protects items from the elements.
• Bay Window Bench: A bench in a bay window not only adds charm but can also feature a secret compartment for storing spare comforters or quilts, extra pillows, or seasonal clothing.
• Armchair Cooler: An innovative armchair with a built-in cooler in its arms is perfect for keeping beverages chilled during movie nights or your favorite game, adding convenience without pausing the fun.

These seating options enhance your home’s aesthetics and provide practical, space-saving solutions. Which one is your favorite?

As your Realtor, I place the highest priority on client relationships and customer service.

When you’re buying or selling a home, you deserve a partner who listens to your needs, communicates clearly, and is committed to your success every step of the way. My approach is personalized and proactive. I ensure that all interactions are handled with the utmost care and respect, striving to understand and meet your unique goals.

Whether you are navigating the complexities of a first-time purchase or managing a sophisticated property sale, my aim is to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Exceptional customer service means being available, attentive, and adaptable to ensure that your real estate experience not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Let's dive into some common real estate myths and set the record straight.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or somewhere in between, it's important to distinguish real estate myths from reality. The last one is my personal favorite.

Myth: You can't buy a home in today's market without a 20% down payment.
Truth: Many programs allow purchases with significantly less down.

Myth: Spring is the only good time to sell a home.
Truth: Each season brings unique advantages, depending on your market.

Myth: You get a better deal buying a home without a Realtor.
Truth: Skipping professional guidance can lead to costly mistakes and missed opportunities.

Question about a real estate myth you’ve heard? Drop it in the comments.

Calming the chaos in kids' rooms can be easy, if you employ the right methods.

Here’s some fun ideas...
• Stuffy Zoo: Create a “stuffy zoo” with a DIY stuffed animal holder using bungee cords or a mesh basket. It’s a fun way to keep plush toys organized, yet accessible.
• Shoe Storage: Use cubbies or a shoe rack to keep shoes tidy. A bench with storage underneath is perfect for additional seating and keeping shoes neatly stored.
• Bookcase for Games and Books: A colorful bookcase for games and books keep everything in one place. It also encourages kids to keep their favorite items organized.
• Loft Bed: A loft bed frees up floor space, ideal for smaller rooms. Use the space underneath for play, a study nook, or extra storage.
• Wall-Mounted Activities: Hang surfboards, skateboards, skim boards, or snowboards on the wall. It keeps the floor clear and adds a cool, personal element to the room.

With these ideas, you can create a tidy, fun space for kids to enjoy and the mess won't drive you mad.

Creating a bar at home could enhance your living space with fun and functionality.

Traditional Bar • With chic cabinetry, glass shelves and a trendy backsplash, bar stools and a well-organized counter for drink prep bring the party.

Wine Bar • Cultivate elegance with a wine fridge, bottle storage, and stem glassware racks. Wooden accents and a decanting area complete the experience.

Beer Bar • Industrial style with metal accents, a kegerator, and bottle storage are ideal for brews at the home bar, a chalkboard wall allows for listing different beers.

Coffee Bar • Create cozy ambiance with open shelves for mugs, a coffee machine, grinder, and tiled backsplash. A French press makes fantastic coffee and warm lighting adds a café feel.

Candy Bar • Design forward glass jars are perfect for sweets, bright colors, and whimsical design. Small colorful bowls are perfect for tasting.

Snack Bar • Ideal for a home theater, display shelves, a popcorn machine, snacks and mini-fridge for drinks create the perfect movie marathon experience at home.

Each bar adds unique charm and convenience to your home, and they can be a real show stopper when entertaining.

High design elevates interior spaces by merging aesthetics and practicality.

High design is all about creating visually stunning and functional environments, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. This approach values quality, favoring high intrinsic value materials and artisanal craftsmanship, and prioritizes minimalism where every element serves a purpose. For example, Marc Newson’s bookcases, cut from a single piece of Italian marble, embody this philosophy.

High design integrates art and design, ensuring each piece contributes to a cohesive and inspiring atmosphere. It's not just about beauty; it's about enhancing well-being and daily life. Achieving harmony between form and function, high design creates timeless, elegant, and impactful interiors.

What does a day in the life of a successful Realtor look like?

Let's dive in...
A typical day starts with waking up and checking emails, followed by reviewing the MLS for new listings. Scheduling showings and perhaps attending a sales meeting are typical morning tasks. Meeting my favorite real estate photographer at a new listing and contacting clients for preapproval with a mortgage broker often fill the afternoon. Coordinating with a professional stager to prepare a client's property for sale is essential. The day wraps up with engaging on social media and reading real estate literature to stay current and cultivate market knowledge.

Seeking your dream home? Looking to list your property? Let's talk real estate!

When my clients create a wish list for their dream home, luxury features often top their list.

As a Realtor, I frequently see coveted features like expansive outdoor living spaces, chef's kitchens with high-end appliances, spacious home offices, and lavish primary suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite boasting spa finishes, topping the wish list. Other popular features include smart home technology, private fitness area, wine cellar, and home theater.

By understanding these luxury preferences, I can better tailor the home search to find properties that offer the features and functionality my clients seek.

Preparing to sell a home involves several strategic steps to attract potential buyers and secure the best price.

Here's what I recommend for my clients:
1. Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Ensure the exterior is well-maintained with fresh paint, tidy landscaping, and a clean entrance.
2. Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove personal items and excess clutter to help buyers visualize themselves in the space.
3. Make Necessary Repairs: Fix any obvious issues like leaky faucets, broken tiles, or damaged walls.
4. Deep Clean: A spotless home shows better. Consider professional cleaning services for carpets, windows, baseboards and all surfaces. Don't forget appliances, buyers will look in the refrigerator and oven.
5. Stage the Home: Arrange furniture to highlight the home’s best features and create a welcoming atmosphere.

I promise to...
• Price Competitively: Research the local market and price your home appropriately to attract serious buyers.
• Provide Professional Photos: High-quality photos for online listings can significantly impact buyer interest.
• Market Effectively: Use multiple channels, including social media, real estate websites, and open houses, to reach potential buyers.

Let's discuss selling your property. I'll help you obtain the highest and best offer.

When considering home renovations with the best return on investment (ROI), focus on areas that significantly enhance the home's appeal and functionality.

Here are some top renovation ideas for high ROI:
1. Kitchen Remodel: Upgrading countertops, cabinets, and appliances can yield a high ROI. Even minor updates like new fixtures or a fresh coat of paint make a big difference.
2. Bathroom Renovation: Modernizing bathrooms with new tile, vanities, and fixtures attract buyers and offers solid returns.
3. Curb Appeal: Improving the exterior with landscaping, fresh paint, and a new front door enhances first impressions and adds value.
4. Energy Efficiency: Installing energy-efficient windows, insulation, and HVAC systems can lower utility bills and increase your home’s marketability.
5. Adding Space: Converting basements or attics into functional living areas, or adding a deck or patio, increases usable space and appeal.

Prioritizing these renovations can help maximize your investment when it's time to sell. Thinking of selling? Let's talk real estate.

Just listed! Kathleen just listed this very spacious 3 bedroom half duplex in the Brooklawn area. Large, sunlit rooms with an open flow for today's living. Finished lower level with walk-out to the pretty yard. Don't miss it!
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Cleaning with lemons is a natural, effective, and eco-friendly way to maintain your home. Lemons have powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making them ideal for a variety of cleaning tasks.

Some great ideas for freshening your home with lemons are...
• Deodorize: Simmer lemon slices with cloves to freshen the air.
• Polish Copper: Rub tarnished copper with a lemon dipped in salt. Then rinse thoroughly with water and dry completely with a clean organic cloth to prevent any residual acidity from damaging the metal.
• Brighten Whites: Boil linens in water with lemon slices.
• Remove Stains: Use lemon juice on stubborn stains, then scrub with baking soda.
• Clean Microwave: Microwave a bowl of lemon juice and water to loosen grime. Follow with a thorough wipe down with an organic cloth.

Regularly harvesting lemons and using them in these creative ways can keep your home clean and smelling fresh, naturally and chemical free.

Creating an herb garden adds fresh herbs and greenery to your space. It's the perfect addition to your dream kitchen.

Some creative options include:
1. Vertical Garden: Use wall-mounted planters or hanging pots to save counter space.
2. Living Wall: Install a sturdy frame and mix herbs that thrive together.
3. Separate Containers: Grow each herb in its own pot with good drainage and label them. Ideal for herbs with different needs.
4. Mini Herb Garden: Plant several herbs in one large container. Choose herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme. Ensure proper drainage.

Tips for cultivating the perfect garden are:
• Grow Lights: Use if lacking natural light.
• Harvesting: Regularly harvest to encourage growth.
• Watering: Water when the soil is dry, avoid overwatering.
• Air Circulation: Ensure good airflow to prevent mold and pests.

A thriving herb garden for the kitchen will enhance your cooking and design.

Stop in this weekend to see & I at 999 High Street! This pretty cape in the University area is the perfect entry to Fairfield. Gorgeous, flat corner lot with convenience to town, train and all the Fairfield has to offer. Don't miss it!
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"To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity."

- Douglas Adams

As a Realtor, delivering true service means more than just facilitating transactions; it's about building trust and genuine connections. Sincerity and integrity are invaluable qualities that can't be bought. When working with clients, showing genuine care for their needs and being honest throughout the process fosters lasting relationships and ensures a positive reputation.

By prioritizing these principles, I not only help clients find their perfect home but also create a meaningful and rewarding experience for everyone involved. I pride myself in turning new clients into forever clients.

New listing alert! Fairfield’s University area for $574,900!! Don’t miss this amazing home that I have co-listed with .realestate . Showings begin today.