meganmazurek - Tumblr blog

[meganmazurek]

3️⃣ Reasons Why Fall is a Great Time to Sell Your Home 🍂

The spring is typically known as the busiest season for homebuying activity, however, the Ann Arbor region is known for having a strong fall market.

Here are some of the reasons to consider selling your Ann Arbor area home this fall.

1️⃣ Less Competition

With fewer homes for sale, you will have less competition and more power to sell your home on your own terms. You may be more likely to get your asking price. Or, better yet, your home could end up in a bidding war that drives up its sale price if it’s among the few available properties in your area.

2️⃣ Enhanced Curb Appeal

Nothing boosts a home’s curb appeal like trees with brightly colored leaves and festive fall decor. Plus, the fact that the weather is generally cooperative could work to your benefit. If you list before the peak of fall, you can often get a better sale price for your home, especially if it's in good condition and staged well.

In addition to making sure the leaves are raked and the gutters are cleaned, you can spruce up your home with fall foliage to make it feel warm and welcoming to potential buyers.

For indoor staging, add some décor in autumn accent colors (like orange or red) and seasonal candles to harvest the coziness.

3️⃣ Serious Buyers Generally, the fall market brings buyers who weren't able to find a house during the spring market and they are ready to get settled before the winter months. They also aren't distracted by summer vacations and kids home from school.

[meganmazurek]

5️⃣ Local Nonprofits to Support during Pride Month

A meaningful way to celebrate Pride Month is by supporting one of these local charities.

With so many nonprofits still struggling as a result of COVID-19, your contribution can help make a difference in addressing inequality, improving public health, and building a more accepting world.  

Jim Toy Community Center

Ozone House

Ozone House is a community-based, nonprofit agency that helps young people lead safe, healthy, and productive lives through intensive intervention and prevention services. All Ozone House doors are open to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning youth.

Through Ozone House, PrideZone is a social and support group for youth ages 13-20 who identify as LGBTQ+. It is a safe place to:

Socialize

Build community

Have fun in an open, queer space

Access support services

Neutral Zone

Neutral Zone is a diverse, youth-driven teen center dedicated to promoting personal growth through artistic expression, community leadership and the exchange of ideas. 

Spectrum Center, University of Michigan

LGBT Resource Center, Eastern Michigan University 

The LGBT Resource Center supports the success and development of gender and sexual minoritized students through affirmation, empowerment, and advocacy by providing events, class resources, volunteer opportunities, books, and DVD’s.

[meganmazurek]

6 Ways to Participate in World Kindness

Participating in #WorldKindnessDay is a simple yet impactful way to make a positive difference in the world, today or any day of the year. Here are a few ideas on how you can spread kindness:

♥️ Perform Acts of Kindness: Consciously perform acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor, complimenting a colleague, or donating to a charity.

♥️ Spread Positivity: Share uplifting and positive messages on social media to inspire others to be kind and compassionate.

♥️ Volunteer: Offer your time to volunteer for a local charity or nonprofit organization that aligns with your values.

♥️ Donate: Make a donation to a charitable cause that you believe in, whether it’s for humanitarian aid, education, or healthcare.

♥️ Teach Kindness: Educate children and young people about the importance of kindness and empathy through storytelling or classroom activities.

♥️ Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise someone with a random act of kindness, such as buying a stranger’s coffee or leaving an encouraging note for a friend.

[meganmazurek]

Collecting Coats all Month for the Reinhart Coat Drive

The Reinhart Coat Drive has returned with a goal of collecting more than 1,500 new and gently used adult and children’s winter coats to distribute to local agencies throughout Washtenaw County.

During the month of November, I am collecting new and gently used Adult and Children's winter coats for the Annual Reinhart Coat Drive.

Please let me know if you have any coats you would like to donate. I would be happy to pick them up, or you can drop them off at any of the Charles Reinhart Company Sales Offices.

Please help us keep our community warm this winter!

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

Be a Superhero this October by Donating Socks for Socktober!

Each night in the United States, an estimated 600,000 people live on the streets.

Did you know socks are the most needed item in homeless shelters? 🧦

For the month of October, several members of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors are participating in Socktober, an event to collect new socks to benefit the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County, SafeHouse Center, and the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office

Please let me know if you would like to donate socks to the drive. I would be happy to pick them up, or you can drop them off at any of the Charles Reinhart Company Sales Offices.

Socktober was launched by Kid President creator Brad Montague. It’s a movement to get kids and grown-ups to help the homeless in an easy, fun way.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

#MortgageMonday: Create Ways to Save for Your Downpayment

Are you thinking about buying a house? It's never too early to start saving money for your downpayment and closing costs.

Here are a few creative ways to save some extra coins.

Cancel your gym membership

Take your lunch to work

Cook more at home instead of eating out

Start meal planning

Ditch the streaming services

Buy generic vs. name-brand

Have a garage sale or sell some of your things on Facebook Marketplace

Get a side hustle

Take a break from Starbucks

Use coupons

Buy in bulk

Avoid ATM fees

Learn to DIY

What are things you do to save money?

Thinking about making a move? Give me a call at 734-645-4296 and let’s discuss what works best for you.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

#MortgageMonday: Questions to Ask your Mortgage Lender

Being prepared and working with the right local lender will make the homebuying process run more smoothly.

Q: What mortgage loans do I qualify for?

Q: What's the minimum needed for a down payment?

Q: What's the interested rate and annual percentage rate?

Q: What will my closing costs be?

Q: How lone will the loan process take?

It’s never too early to speak with a local lender to learn more about the process. If you don’t already have a lender, please contact me. I would be happy to provide you with recommendations for knowledgeable, local lenders who will help guide you through the mortgage process. 🏠

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

5️⃣ Ways to make your HOME work for you

Here are 5️⃣ ways to make your HOME work for you.

01. Maximize Your Space One of the top reasons people purchase a new home - they've run out of space. Make the most of your space by decluttering what you don't need and getting creative with storage solutions. Vertical storage shelves and vacuum sealer bags make a big impact on a small space.

02. Think Outside the 4 Walls Your guest room doesn't have to be a guest room and your formal dining room doesn't have to be a formal dining room. Make your house work for you by thinking outside the box and lean into the potential of each space.

03. Earn a Living Where You're Living Make that home office really count and start earning a living where you're living. Whether it's a side hustle or (eventually) a full-time gig, you can make some serious money without leaving your dog or changing out of your yoga pants.

04. Rent a Room of Your Whole House If you have an extra living space (a separate entrance is a bonus) or if you are planning on being gone for an extended period of time, list your home on Airbnb to make some extra cash.

05. Get Creative Have a backyard that's perfect for photoshoots? Allow local photographers to rent your yard for the night. Have a flower garden you love tending to? Offer a fresh bouquet each month. Have you worked hard to create a magazine-worthy home? List on Home Studio List for local creatives to rent by the hour.

If your home isn't working for you and you're ready to make a move, I'd be happy to help! Give me a call today at 734-645-4296 to discuss how I can help you. I am committed to helping people reach their real estate and financial investment goals! 

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

#MortgageMonday: 3️⃣ Common Homeownership Myths

There are a few common misconceptions about getting a mortgage that may be holding you back from taking the next step. Below are 3 common myths about homeownership.

“I need a perfect credit score to qualify.” ✨ While a good credit score helps, there are various loan options available for different credit profiles. Local lenders can work with a wide range of credit scores.

“I need to save up at least 20% for the down payment.” 💵 There are programs with lower down payment options and opportunities to qualify for down payment assistance. Your local lender will crunch all your numbers up front, so there are no surprises.

“I’ll wait for interest rates to go down.” ⏰ You are not locked into the same rate for the entirety of your ownership of the home. You can always invest now to begin building equity and generational wealth, and then opt to refinance later if rates decrease. What other concerns do you have about the mortgage process? It’s never too early to speak with a local lender to learn more about the process. If you don’t already have a lender, please contact me. I would be happy to provide you with recommendations for knowledgeable, local lenders who will help guide you through the mortgage process. 🏠

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

5 Tips to Stay Safe for National Safety Month

June is National Safety Month. According to the National Safety Council, these are the top 5 causes of preventable injury-related deaths. 

Poisoning: Use chemical-free cleaning products and keep all chemicals, medications and other poisons locked in a secure place.

Falls: Ensure guardrails are sturdy and stairs are gated off to small children.

Choking: Keep choking hazards out of reach for small children and be familiar with maneuvers to help save someone’s life should choking occur.

Drowning: Install gates around the pool and spa area as well as have your pool inspected annually to assess safety risks.

Fire Flames or Smoke: Test your smoke detectors every month to ensure they are functioning properly and have your electrical system inspected to detect any potential fire hazards.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

Help us Shower Mothers in Need during the United Way of Washtenaw County Community Baby Shower

Did you know that in Washtenaw County, 1 in 3 families struggle to meet the basic needs of their household?  No one should have to choose between putting food on the table or purchasing diapers for their baby!

The Community Baby Shower is an annual donation drive organized by the United Way of Washtenaw County Emerging Philanthropists throughout the month of May. Donations will be delivered to Destiny and Purpose Community Outreach (DAPCO), SOS Community Services, and Saline Area Social Service.

The following items are greatly needed:

Formula

Diapers

Strollers

Wipes

Blankets

Baby Food

Baby Gates

Pacifiers

Pull-ups

Baby Clothes

Health care items

Bottles

Digital Thermometers

Potty Chairs

DONATE ONLINE

Donate online by visiting our Target registry or Amazon registry. You can have donations sent directly to the United Way of Washtenaw County - 2305 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor.

DONATE IN PERSON

Drop off your donation anytime Monday through Friday (9am - 5pm) at the Bank Michigan branch on Eisenhower Pkwy, any Old National Bank or Reinhart Realtors location.

Please let me know if you have any items you would like to donate. I would be happy to pick them up from you!

[meganmazurek]

#JustListed: Incredible Ann Arbor Hills Home on Melrose Ave

Don’t miss 2137 Melrose Ave, one of the original houses in the sought-after Ann Arbor Hills neighborhood with all of the charm expected from the era with a thoughtful and seamless Damian Farrell-designed addition. 

The expansive first floor features a large living room with fireplace backing on a second fireplace in the office/den.

The formal dining room, with original built-ins, is off of the kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and recessed lighting. 

The addition includes a large breakfast nook with the original beautiful repurposed kitchen cabinets, leading to the covered porch. 

The spacious family room has custom cherry built-ins. 

On the second level you'll find the original primary suite with an attached bathroom, 2 bedrooms, full bathroom, and current primary suite with a walk-in closet, two sinks, soaking jacuzzi tub, and standing shower. 

On the third floor you'll find 2 bedrooms and large attic storage area. 

The partially finished lower level provides another office or family room, laundry, half bathroom, and plenty of storage space. 

The oversized 4-car garage features plenty of storage, workspace, and a loft.

Located in an ideal location near both University of Michigan campuses, downtown Ann Arbor, Hospitals, restaurants and shopping.

>  Click here to see more pictures of 2137 Melrose Ave in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

>  Click here to watch the video tour of 2137 Melrose Ave.

Call or text 734-645-4296 to schedule a showing today.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

#JustListed: Remarkable Ranch on a large lot For Sale in Ann Arbor

Don't miss 1601 Broadway Street, a remarkable ranch on a large lot at the top of the hill on Broadway Street overlooking Cedar Bend Nature Area.

You'll be greeted with a nice entryway with a large walk-in closet, leading to a large living room with a cozy fireplace.

The sitting room is surrounded by several windows providing plenty of natural light and beautiful views of the wooded lot.

The bright, updated kitchen has clean lines, white cabinets, new countertops, and subway tile-style backsplash, and a beautiful view of the backyard.

The kitchen opens to the dining room with additional white built-in cabinets providing plenty of storage.

There are two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a walk-in cedar hall closet on one end of the home. Currently used as a dining room, the third bedroom could also be used as a den or home office.

The walk-out lower level provides a finished great room with a fireplace and a second full bathroom as well as a laundry room and two spacious storage rooms.

In an ideal location, enjoy the close proximity to downtown Ann Arbor, the Huron River, parks, U of M North Campus and Central Campus, theaters, hospitals, shopping, restaurants, and the expressway. 

This spectacular home is also less than a mile to North Campus, home to Michigan Engineering, the College of Architecture & Urban Planning, the Stamps School of Art & Design, Music, Theatre & Dance, and the Arthur Miller Theater. 

>  Click here to see more pictures of 1601 Broadway Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

>  Click here to watch the video tour of 1601 Broadway Street.

Call or text 734-645-4296 to schedule a showing today or stop by the Open House on Saturday, April 8th from 1pm to 3pm.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

4️⃣ Reasons to Sell Your House this Spring 🌷

Spring is finally here and the #AnnArbor area real estate market is on fire! 

Have you been considering selling your house? Here are 4 reasons why you should consider selling now.

1️⃣ Competition is still low. We are still experiencing very low inventory with far more buyers than sellers.  

2️⃣ Better curb appeal. It’s a colorful time of year as flowers start to bloom.

3️⃣ Longer days. Finally! The longer days and increased sunlight means more time for buyers to look at homes. 

4️⃣ People want to buy NOW. Many people are relocating here for new jobs this time of year, or want to get settled before the start of the next school year. 

Give me a call today at 734-645-4296 to discuss how I can help you. I am committed to helping people reach their real estate and financial investment goals! 

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

3 Things to do when we Spring Forward

In addition to setting our clocks back an hour, now is a great time to do these three things to prepare your family and home for fire or weather emergencies.

Practice a fire drill with your family and write a family communication plan.

Replace all of the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Test and replace all of the batteries in your flashlights and NOAA Weather Radio.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

#JustListed: Ranch Condo in Serene Setting For Sale in Ann Arbor

Don’t miss 4302 Pine Ridge Court, an end-unit ranch-style condo in a serene setting, overlooking the pond with a private entrance and attached garage.

This bright, light-filled condo features a large living room with a tile surround fireplace with a custom mantle.

The living room opens to the dining room and kitchen. 

The primary suite has a walk-in closet and an attached full bathroom. 

The main level also includes a second bedroom, full bathroom, and laundry. 

The finished, walkout lower level provides additional living space, storage, and third full bathroom. 

In a desirable location, The Arbors features a community pool, hot tub, sauna, tennis court, trails, and walking paths. Enjoy the benefits of low township taxes and close proximity to the expressway, University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, hospitals, Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Parker Miller County Park, and the Huron River. 

>  Click here to see more pictures of 4302 Pine Ridge Court in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Call or text 734-645-4296 for more information or to schedule a showing.

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.

[meganmazurek]

Is 2023 the year you become a homeowner?

Is 2023 the year you become a homeowner? I'm here to help! As you prepare to get the keys to a home you OWN, consider this guidance.

Lean on professionals – Don’t let buzzy news headlines hold you back from your goals. As your Realtor, I can help you through the process a stress-free as possible. Your local loan officer can help you access a variety of programs that will help you succeed in the current market conditions.

Get a plan in place – Work with us (myself and your local lender) to set up a timeline for your home purchase. You’ll create a doable plan that makes your homeownership dream possible with a budget that feels good for you.

Stay confident with your decision – Owning instead of renting is a smart move for both your present and future. You’ll never have to worry about your monthly payment increasing while your own net worth does!

I'm by your side throughout your entire home purchase experience and even after your closing day. Let’s hit your home goals this year!

About the Author: Megan Mazurek is a full-time residential Realtor with the Charles Reinhart Company serving buyers and sellers in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and throughout Washtenaw County.