Whether you’re selling your first home, or you’re an experienced seller, my goal is to make the process as simple and effective as possible. I’ve negotiated contracts for millions of dollars’ worth of business and have been recognized for providing the utmost in quality service to my customers. My clients count on my knowledge and background to provide them with insight and direction in their real estate plans. If there’s anything I can do for you, please give me a call!
Sally Agent REALTOR® Results Realty 941-723-2400
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LEARN TO PREP YOUR HOME LIKE A PRO Essential Tips for a Successful Home Sale pg. 2
YOUR HOME INSURANCE
What’s Changing and How it Affects You pg. 4
WARM AND RUSTIC RECIPE COMBO
Two Tasty Recipes that Taste Great Together pg. 6
HOME-SALE TAX GUIDE
Learn to Manage Your Tax Liabilities and Maximize Your Gains pg. 7
ECO-FRIENDLY HOME UPGRADES THAT PAY OFF Reduce Your Utility Costs While Increasing Your Property Value pg. 8
#1 Test and Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Keeping these devices functional is critical for your family’s safety and peace of mind.
Home Maintenance Checklist
Four Essential Maintenance Tasks to Tackle this Quarter
#2 Check for Leaks or damage to your roof and gutters. Winter weather can take a toll— early detection of issues can prevent costly repairs down the line.
#3 Inspect HVAC Systems and schedule a tune-up if needed. A wellmaintained heating system ensures energy efficiency and keeps your home warm during cold months.
#4 Clean and Organize your attic or basement. Decluttering these storage areas not only creates more usable space but also reduces the risk of fire hazards in your home.
Free Pre-Listing Consultation
Considering selling your home? I analyze key market factors to pinpoint the ideal list price, helping you achieve the best possible return on your investment.
Take the first step with a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Get clear answers and expert advice— without any pressure. Call now to get started!
Sally Agent REALTOR® 941-723-2400
Results Realty
PREP YOUR HOMElike a Pro
Preparation is the key to maximizing your home’s value and ensuring a smooth sale process.
Selling your home this year? Here are some essential tips to help you get ready and attract the right buyers.
Start with a Clean Slate
Begin by decluttering your home. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that makes your space feel crowded. A clean, organized home can help potential buyers visualize themselves living there.
Consider renting a storage unit for items you want to keep but need to temporarily relocate.
Elevate Exterior Charm
First impressions matter. Spend time sprucing up your home’s exterior by power washing, painting where needed, and adding fresh landscaping.
Even small touches like new house numbers or a colorful welcome mat can make a difference.
Make Necessary Repairs
Address minor repairs such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint. Buyers notice these details, and a well-maintained home signals that it’s been cared for.
For bigger projects like a roof replacement or HVAC servicing, consult your real estate agent to decide which upgrades will provide the best return on investment.
Refresh Interior Spaces
Neutralize your home’s color palette with light, modern tones that appeal to a wide range of buyers. Consider small but impactful updates such as new light fixtures, cabinet hardware, or energyefficient appliances.
These changes can give your home a fresh, modern look without breaking the bank.
Set the Scene
Professional staging can make your home shine. Well-placed furniture, tasteful decor, and good lighting emphasize your home’s best features and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
If professional staging isn’t in your budget, focus on decluttering and rearranging furniture to make spaces feel open and functional.
Partner with the Right Real Estate Agent
Lastly, partner with a trusted real estate professional who understands your local market and can expertly guide you through the process.
Naturally, I’m referring to myself! I can provide valuable advice on pricing, timing, and recommend updates that will attract buyers.
YOUR HOME INSURANCE
What’s Changing and How it Affects You
The home insurance landscape is shifting, and homeowners need to stay informed to protect their investments. Here’s a quick look at recent changes and how they might impact you.
RISING PREMIUMS
Natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes are driving up home insurance premiums nationwide. These rate jumps began in 2023, where homeowners saw an average premium increase of 11.3%, with some states, such as Texas and Arizona, experiencing hikes of more than 20%.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY IN HIGH-RISK AREAS
Major insurers are scaling back or withdrawing from regions prone to disasters. Companies like State Farm and Allstate have reduced coverage or raised rates significantly, leaving many homeowners searching for affordable policies.
STRICTER TERMS AND EXCLUSIONS
Policies now often come with higher deductibles and stricter exclusions, particularly for natural disasterrelated damages. Homeowners affected by recent
hurricanes have faced increased out-of-pocket costs due to these limitations.
ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate change is reshaping how insurers assess risk, leading to rising costs and, in some cases, nonrenewals. Homeowners in high-risk areas may need to explore alternative coverage options, including surplus lines or state-backed insurance plans.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
• Review your policy regularly to ensure adequate coverage.
• Mitigate risks with fire-resistant materials or storm shutters.
• Explore alternative insurers if your carrier withdraws from your area.
Stay proactive and informed to navigate these changes and secure the coverage you need.
Warm and Rustic Recipe Combo
Beef and Barley Soup
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 tbsp. oil
• 2 lb. beef (cubed)
• 8 oz. mushrooms (chopped)
• 1 large carrot (chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 garlic cloves (pressed)
• 4 c. beef broth
• ½ c. barley
• 1 tbsp. salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp. pepper (adjust to taste)
In a pot, brown beef with oil. Add onion, carrot and mushrooms to the beef and sauté until veggies turn slightly golden. Add salt, pepper, bay leaves and garlic. Pour in beef broth and allow everything to simmer on medium heat for 45 minutes with the lid on. Add barley and cook for 20 more minutes or until it’s fully cooked. Serve right away.
Two tasty recipes that taste great together
Rosemary Focaccia
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ c. olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp. fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 1 tbsp. fresh thyme (chopped)
• ¼ tsp. black pepper
• 1 c. warm water
• 2 ¼ tsp. instant yeast
• ¼ tsp. sugar
• 2 ½ c. all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. fine sea salt
Combine olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and pepper in a skillet. Cook, while stirring for 10 minutes over low heat. Remove skillet from heat before garlic browns. In large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir a few times, then let sit for 5 minutes. Add 1 cup of flour and ¼ cup of garlic-olive oil mixture to the bowl with yeast. Stir 3 to 4 times until flour is moist. Wait 5 minutes, then stir remaining 1 ½ cups of flour and salt. When dough comes together, transfer to floured board and knead 10 to 15 times until smooth. Transfer dough to oiled bowl, cover with warm, damp towel, and let rise until doubled in size (1 to 2 hours). When dough has doubled, preheat oven to 450°F, oil 9 x 13-inch baking sheet with rim. Transfer dough to baking sheet and press into pan. Use fingers to dimple dough, then drizzle with garlic-olive oil mixture. Let dough rise for 20 minutes until it puffs. Bake until golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes, then cool.
HOME-SALE TAX GUIDE
Learn to Manage Your Tax Liabilities and Maximize Your Gains
Selling a home carries significant tax implications that homeowners should understand to effectively manage liabilities and realize the most gains.
CAPITAL GAINS TAX EXCLUSION
The IRS allows homeowners to exclude up to $250,000 of profit from the sale of a primary residence ($500,000 for married couples filing jointly) from capital gains tax.
To qualify, you must have owned and lived in the home as your main residence for at least two of the five years preceding the sale. This exclusion can be utilized once every two years.
CALCULATING CAPITAL GAINS
Capital gains are determined by subtracting your home’s adjusted basis from the sale price. The adjusted basis includes the original purchase price plus the cost of significant improvements made during ownership. Routine maintenance expenses are not included in this calculation.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
If your profit from the home sale exceeds the exclusion limit, the excess amount is subject to capital gains tax and must be reported on your tax return. The applicable tax rate depends on your taxable income and holding period of the property.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Certain situations, such as divorce, death of a spouse, or job relocation, may affect your eligibility for the capital gains exclusion. For example, if you acquire ownership of a home as part of a divorce settlement, you can count the time your former spouse owned the home towards the ownership requirement.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Given the complexities of tax laws and potential changes, it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional when planning to sell your home. They can provide personalized guidance based on your circumstances and ensure compliance with all tax obligations.
ECO-FRIENDLY HOME UPGRADES THAT PAY OFF
Incorporating these eco-friendly improvements not only enhance your home’s marketability, they help contribute to a more sustainable future.
Homeowners are increasingly adopting sustainable upgrades that enhance property value and reduce utility costs.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS
Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can provide a return on investment (ROI) of approximately 70%. These windows improve insulation, leading to annual energy savings of about 15%. Prices start around $325 per window, making them a cost-effective enhancement.
TANKLESS WATER HEATERS
Traditional water heaters maintain a reservoir of hot water, consuming energy continuously. In contrast, tankless water heaters heat water on demand, reducing energy usage and lowering utility bills. This upgrade not only conserves energy but also appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
GREEN ROOFING
Installing a green roof, which involves vegetation layers atop the building, can extend roof lifespan by over 200% and decrease energy costs by up to 80% during summer months. Although initial installation may be higher, the long-term savings and potential property value increase of about 7% make it a worthwhile investment.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT APPLIANCES
Replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models reduces energy consumption and appeals to modern buyers. These appliances often come with rebates or credits, further enhancing their financial viability.
SOLAR PANELS
Installing solar panels can significantly lower electricity bills and increase property value. Homes with solar energy systems often sell for more than comparable homes without them, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
SMART THERMOSTATS
Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling, leading to energy savings and increased home appeal. They offer convenience and efficiency, aligning with the preferences of tech-savvy, eco-conscious buyers.
Consult with a real estate professional who is knowledgeable in green home features. This will ensure your upgrades are effectively recognized and valued in the market.
Bradenton, FL 34211
1. PRICING MASTERY
From the start, getting the price right is one of the most important decisions related to getting your home sold for top dollar. I am an expert at determining the best fair market value and pricing strategies to accomplish this goal.
2. NEGOTIATION SKILLS
Experience is critical when negotiating best offers. My clients tell me that they have more peace of mind knowing that I am watching out for their best interests.
3. ONGOING COMMUNICATION
Communication is a vital component in the sales process. Make sure the real estate agent you choose takes the time to establish a time and method for keeping you in the loop every step of the way! As a result, you are always informed, and everyone can avoid unwanted surprises.
4. AREA EXPERTISE
I am a seasoned veteran, with enthusiasm, knowledge, time-tested strategies, and a network of industry-wide professionals at my fingertips, ensuring I have all your needs covered throughout the entire process.
Please reach out if I may be of assistance, or if you know of anyone who might need help with buying or selling a home.
