BY SHAMEKA BRITTON
Can you believe it? October has arrived, ushering in a season filled with warmth, gratitude, and cherished connections. As I sit here, reflecting on the passing months, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you - the incredible individuals who have made this journey truly special.
In a world bustling with constant activity, it's important to take a moment to pause and express appreciation for the people who have touched our lives. Whether you're a client, colleague, or friend, I want you to know that your presence and support have made a lasting impact on me, and for that, I am immensely grateful.
As we enter the holiday season, I find myself eagerly anticipating the joyous celebrations and meaningful moments shared with loved ones. It's during these times that we come together, forging bonds and creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. Whether gathered around a table, exchanging heartfelt conversations, or simply taking in the beauty of the changing seasons, it's these moments that remind us of the true essence of life.
Sincerely,
Shameka Britton
When it comes to the pie crust, you have the option to either buy one ready-made or take the time to prepare it from scratch
Pie Crust:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced 1/4 cup ice water (or as needed)
Filling
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2 Pour the sweet potato mixture into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the pie is set and the crust is golden brown.
4 Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
6.
5. Optionally, you can serve the sweet potato pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar
2 ounces apple cider
2 ounces bourbon
1 ounce maple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir until well-chilled and diluted.
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
Garnish with an orange twist and a cinnamon stick (optional).
“ThiscocktailcombinestheclassicflavorsofanOld Fashionedwiththewarmandcomfortingflavorsof applecider.”
October is fire safety month. Now is a good time to have a fire safety and evacuation conversation with your family.
Clean gutters, downspouts, and clear blockages.
Replace your furnace air filter.
Secure your home from pests and critters
Clean your air vents
Check exterior hand railings and stairs
Winterize AC unit.
Complete deep dusting
Check all outdoor lights
Caulk shower
Clean range hood
Check attic insulation
The choice between a brand-new build and an existing home can significantly impact your future happiness and financial well-being In this article, I'll guide you through the key points to consider when making this pivotal decision.
The first step in any home buying journey is establishing your budget. New builds often come with a higher price tag due to modern amenities, energy-efficient features, and the fact that you're buying a brand-new structure Existing homes, on the other hand, may offer more space for your budget but may require additional investments for renovations or updates.
One of the most enticing aspects of new construction is the ability to personalize the home to your liking. From floor plan adjustments to selecting finishes,
this level of customization allows you to create your dream space. Existing homes, while they may have character and charm, may require renovations to achieve your desired aesthetic.
3. Energy Efficiency and Technology: New builds are typically constructed with the latest energy-efficient technologies, which can lead to lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint. This includes features like advanced insulation, high-efficiency windows, and smart home systems Existing homes may require upgrades to match the energy efficiency of new builds.
4. Maintenance and Repairs:
Brand-new homes often come with warranties that cover major systems and structural components, providing peace of mind for the first few years. Existing homes, while they may have been wellmaintained, may require more immediate attention or unforeseen repairs.
By considering these key points, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of the perfect home. As your trusted real estate agent, I'm here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you find a place to call your own, whether it's a brand-new masterpiece or a charming piece of history
Consider the neighborhood and amenities available. Existing homes may be in established communities with mature trees and existing amenities New builds, on the other hand, may offer modern amenities, community features, and proximity to upand-coming areas
New builds typically require a longer waiting period for construction to be completed This can be an advantage if you have flexibility in your move-in date Existing homes, on the other hand, offer a quicker turnaround, allowing you to settle in sooner.
Consider the potential for appreciation in value New builds may appreciate more rapidly in the early years, benefiting from the latest design trends and features Existing homes, particularly those in sought-after neighborhoods, may offer stable and consistent appreciation over time.
Existing homes often boast unique architectural details, character, and a sense of history that can be hard to replicate in new builds. If you're drawn to the charm of a Craftsman or Victorian home, an existing property may be the perfect fit
In the end, the choice between a new building and an existing home is a deeply personal one It hinges on your lifestyle, budget, preferences, and long-term goals By considering these key points, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of the perfect home. As your trusted real estate agent, I'm here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you find a place to call your own, whether it's a brandnew masterpiece or a charming piece of history
As a proud member of NAREB Nashville and NAREB National, I recently attended the 2023 Conference in Houston, TX Here are three key insights I gained:
Unity and Diversity: The conference showcased the diversity and power of representation in the Black real estate industry, bringing together talented professionals from diverse backgrounds and regions.
Fighting for Affordable Housing: Prominent officials, including Secretary Marcia L. Fudge from HUD, emphasized the importance of affordable housing. NAREB's dedication to increasing Black appraisals and finding creative solutions was inspiring.
Political Engagement and Inspiring Leadership: NAREB takes its voting process seriously, ensuring strong and capable leadership. Witnessing the new president being sworn in and hearing from the past president was truly inspiring
Attending a NAREB National Conference is a must to understand the remarkable work being done by this organization. It's an opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by like-minded individuals shaping the future of real estate. Don't miss it!
