As summer winds down and school is back in session, I hope you had a wonderful time during these sunny months. Reflecting on the season in Nashville, we've enjoyed the warmth, long days, and the strong sense of community that make our city special.
I hope you took a moment to enjoy the simple pleasures whether it was a peaceful walk in the park, a fun night at a music venue, or a meal with loved ones under the stars. These experiences bring joy and meaning to our lives. In our busy routines, it's important to stay connected with ourselves and those around us. Let’s continue to appreciate the beauty of Nashville and spread kindness wherever we go.
Thank you for being a valued part of our Fab Living family. Your love for Nashville inspires me daily Here’s to a summer filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Shameka Britton
NASHVILLEAT AGLANCE:
So far this Quarter- Q3
As of September 2024, the Nashville housing market is holding steady, with some minor changes that could be important for both buyers and sellers.
Home Prices: The median home price in the Nashville area is around $438,000, which is nearly the same as last year, with only a slight dip of 0.1% (Redfin ).
Market Activity: Homes are spending about 61 days on the market, which is a bit longer than in the past This gives buyers more time to consider their options (Redfin).
Supply and Demand: There are more homes being listed, but the overall number of homes for sale is still low. This keeps prices fairly stable despite higher mortgage rates.
Overall, the Nashville market is balanced, with good opportunities for both buyers and sellers depending on their goals.
Q3 2024
Montgomery Cheatham Robertson Davidson Wilson Williamson Rutherford Sumner
HOME Maintenance TIPS
Service the Air Conditioner
Check water softener and replenish salt
Trim trees, bushes and shrubs
Test lawn irrigation system
Clean out garage
CHOOSING BETWEEN MULTIPLE OFFERS WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME
Photosource:Canva
How to choose the best offer in a bidding war on my house?
As a seller, you may be lucky enough to receive multiple offers on your home While this may seem like a dream come true, it can also be difficult to choose the best offer from the prospective buyers when you’re in a bidding war. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between multiple offers when selling your home
Know what your priorities are when selling your home before any offers come in.
Why am I selling my home?
What is my preferred time frame?
Am I looking for a quick sale or the highest offer?
What do I need to net from the sale?
Highest Offer Isn't Always the Best
Consider these factors beyond the price:
Earnest Money Deposit: Higher deposits show serious intent.
Cash Offers: Quicker and smoother transactions
Loan Type: Some loans are easier to secure than others.
Down Payment: Larger down payments indicate financial strength. Contingencies: Fewer contingencies are better Common contingencies include:
Appraisal Contingency
Home Inspection Contingency
Financing Contingency
Sale of Home Contingency
Closing Date
The closing date should align with your timeline
Choose an offer that meets your schedule needs:
Quick Closing: If you need to sell fast, opt for the shortest closing time
Flexible Closing: If you need more time, choose an offer with a later closing date.
Appraisal Gap
Ensure buyers are prepared to cover any difference between the appraised value and the offer price. Discuss how they plan to handle an appraisal gap.
Escalation Clause
Real Estate Agent's Role
Understand escalation clauses, which automatically increase the offer to outbid others by a set amount:
Maximum Price: Ensure you know the highest price the buyer is willing to pay Avoid Low-Balling: Be cautious of buyers using low initial offers to trigger the clause
Flexible Timeframe
If your move depends on buying another pr b i h fl ibl i li be th rea
Your agent is crucial in this process They can:
Review Offers: Help you understand each offer’s details. Negotiate: Assist in negotiating terms to meet your needs
Advise: Provide insights to help you choose the best offer.
By considering these factors, you can navigate multiple offers effectively and select the one that best meets your needs
Kidsville Family Festival returns to Centennial Park on September 28 from 10 AM to 3 PM for a fun day filled with performances, crafts, games, face painting, food trucks, character meet and greets, and more
SEPTEMBER 28 -29, 2024
PILGRIMAGE FESTIVAL
Celebrating its 10th anniversary with an eclectic mix of artists including Dave Matthews Band, Hozier, Noah Kahan, Needtobreathe, Trombone Shorty, Allison Russell, Charlie Worsham, and more than two dozen other acts.
Summer Food Recipe:
S T R A W B E R R Y S H O R T C A K E
It may be the end of summer, but there's still time to savor a delicious Strawberry Shortcake. Whether you're marking a special occasion or just basking in the warm weather, this delightful dessert is bound to be a summer staple!
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups flour (local whole wheat preferred)
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3 tbsp cold butter, cubed
3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)
1 pint of fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Pat dough into a 1-inch thick circle Cut biscuits with a round cutter (or glass) Bake 10-12 minutes or golden brown.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Mix dry ingredients. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly Add buttermilk and mix until dough forms
2 Whip cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
4.
3. Assemble: Split warm biscuits, top with strawberries, and dollop with whipped cream. Enjoy!
Summer Drink Recipe:
P E A C H B A S I L L E M O N A D E
This drink combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the tang of lemon and the aromatic touch of fresh basil. It’s a great way to enjoy the last of the summer fruit.
PEACH BASIL LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: INSTRUCTIONS:
4 large ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
1/2 cup honey or simple syrup
4 cups cold water
A handful of fresh basil leaves
Ice cubes
Optional: sparkling water for a fizzy twist
In a blender, puree the peach slices until smooth
In a large pitcher, combine the peach puree, fresh lemon juice, and honey or simple syrup. Stir until well mixed. Add the cold water and stir again. Gently bruise the basil leaves by clapping them between your hands or using a muddler, then add them to the pitcher.
Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour in the peach basil lemonade, and garnish with extra basil leaves or a peach slice. For a fizzy version, top each glass with a splash of sparkling water before serving.
SPOTLIGHT Vendor
THE WARE AGENCY, CELESTIA WARE III
Q: Who You Are: Tell us about yourself. What's your story, and how did you end up in the insurance industry?
A: Celestia Ware III is an established Insurance Professional Leader, Community Service Leader, and Philanthropist. I was born in St. Louis MO and raised in Bowling Green KY. I’m a Graduate of Kentucky State University and I holds a Master’s degree from Tennessee State University and Middle Tennessee State University. I live in Nolensville TN I have the skill sets to execute a wide range of Property and Casualty strategies designed to minimize loss ratios while increasing growth I view myself as a team leader with a proven track record of developing and training direct reports on underwriting procedures while ensuring compliance with state guidelines I have a strong background in working with claims discipline including Auto, Bodily Injury, Training, and SIU. I’m also experienced in Commercial Insurance for the Middle Market Segment.
I’m the CEO and Principal Owner for the Ware Enterprise LLC. Celestia is the Principal Agent for Ware Insurance Agency. Our agency is a full-service insurance agency we offer insurance products for Auto, Life, Home, and Commercial Business.
Q: Your Mission: What keeps you motivated to help people with their insurance needs?
A: My motivation is to promote an agency with love and care for all clients Also, I believe in being patient, thoughtful, and merciful in all aspect of life and business Giving back to the community is a big part of my motivation due to the fact as a child growing up in a family with limited resources. I want to be a pillar for the community and known as valuable resource for insurance regardless of race, creed, or financial status.
I have a servant heart and l just love helping and educating the Middle TN market. It’s a true blessing that I get to help protect families and their personal assets.
Q: Common Misconception: What's one thing people often get wrong about insurance that you wish they knew?
A: That insurance companies don’t want to pay for claims. And that is not true, insurance companies are designed to put you back in your pre-existing condition and not to make you better or to provide upgrades.
Q: Future Tip: Share one important piece of advice for our readers to keep in mind about insurance as they plan for the future. Especially with the increase in pricing this year.
A: I would advise all families to review everything that they find value in relation to their life from family, to homes, cars, and businesses, then speak with their insurance coach on how they can protect those assets.
The inflation in today market has caused a significant increase in all lines of business for the insurance industry. I recommend that family treat their insurance needs like they do their health and get multiple checkups throughout the year to make sure that they are properly insured
A good insurance agent is going to inquiry with their clients to make sure their office meeting is meeting the demand in this intense economy
The “Why” in my giving is because I truly have a heart for helping people. I’m blessed by those who have and continuously pour into me. You must “Pay It Forward” when it is your turn.
I will close with this statement “My recommendation would be to get a local insurance coach to discuss your insurance needs for your family or business "It's not relevant until it’s your reality" seek proper counsel before it is too late”
Q: Lastly, could you share how you and your agency contribute to the Middle TN community beyond providing insurance services?
A: The Ware Agency is part of the Davidson and Williamson Chamber of Commerce. We serve on New Member Advisory Group and the Ambassador Team for the Davidson County Chamber of Commerce. For the Willamson Chamber of Commerce we serve on the Black Business Coalition, Small Business Council and in the Ambassador Program for the Chamber.
I’m the Vice President of NAREB the Nashville Board(National Association of Real Estate Broker) The Ware agency has done blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross Our office sponsors an annual ice cream social for the Boys and Girls of Williamson County We also partner with No-Shave November, and I was selected to Leadership Middle TN Class of 2025
The “Why” in my giving is because I truly have a heart for helping people I’m blessed by those who have and continuously pour into me You must “Pay It Forward” when it is your turn
SPOTLIGHT Local
CHICAGO'S HOME OF CHICKEN & WAFFLES
Discovering
a Hidden Gem: Chicago Chicken and Waffles in
East Nashville
If you’re on the lookout for a new dining spot in the Nashville area, let me introduce you to a place that has quickly become one of my favorites Chicago Chicken and Waffles. Located at 2521 Gallatin Ave, this cozy restaurant combines the heartiness of Southern cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
I recently visited with some friends, and we were all blown away by the food and the overall experience I ordered the 3piece wing dinner, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint The wings were crispy and flavorful, paired perfectly with classic sides like macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, and dressing Every bite reminded me why comfort food has such a special place in our hearts.
My friends opted for the catfish, and both agreed it was delicious. The catfish was perfectly cooked with just the right amount of seasoning, making it a hit at our table.
But it’s not just the food that makes Chicago Chicken and Waffles stand out. The vibe of the restaurant is something special. The walls are adorned with beautiful mural art that adds a unique and artistic touch to the dining experience. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the atmosphere is warm and inviting
One thing to note is that there might be a bit of a wait, but in my experience, it was only about 30 minutes, which flew by quickly as we soaked in the lively environment. Trust me, the wait is well worth it.
If you haven’t checked out Chicago Chicken and Waffles yet, I highly recommend you do so. Whether you’re craving wings, catfish, or just some good oldfashioned soul food, this spot has something for everyone Plus, it’s always great to support local businesses that bring something unique to our community.
For more details or to check out their menu, visit their website (https://chicagoschickenandwaffle s.com/).
And who knows, maybe I’ll see you there next time!
