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Tips for the First-Time Gardener

Wednesday, May 27, 2020
by Scott Darling


Gardening--no matter if it’s a veggie garden or a landscape filled with flowering plants, it’s no small undertaking. Many first timers spend a great deal of money on plants, fertilizer, and tools, only to find that their plants die or simply don’t produce as they’d planned. There are a lot of factors to a successful garden or landscape, and the basics are covered here in these tips! 

 

  • Start talking to gardening friends and family now. They have been where you are and know it’s not easy to have a magazine-worthy garden the first year. Find out what grows best in your area and choose a few vegetables to try. 
     

  • Your first plot needs to be small and in a part of your yard that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. Shade in the evening is great to help cool plants on those hot Summer days, but full sun is best during the day. 
     

  • A soil test is important and is most easily done through your local cooperative extension service. The results normally include recommendations for improving your soil quality. 
     

  • Consider using a raised bed for your first attempt! It will make soil-amending easier and gives you more control of water retention/drainage.   
     

  • Purchase seedlings from your garden center instead of starting everything from seed. You’ll have a head start on the harvest!  
     

  • Don’t forget to add some flowering plants to your vegetable garden! Planting a few companion plants will bring pollinators and beneficial insects that help keep the bad bug population down. 

 

    Flower Gardening 

  • Once again, talk to your neighbors; look at what they are growing in their landscapes and flower beds, and ask them what is the easiest to grow and care for. 
     

  • Soil prep is just as important for blooms as it is for the vegetable garden; test the soil from the areas you’re planning on planting. 
     

  • Flowering plants have different needs when it comes to sunlight. While geraniums thrive in full sun, impatiens need mostly-to-full shade. Take care to note the sunlight recommendation on plant tags when you’re making your purchases. 
     

  • If you don’t have time to lug the water hose or sprinkling can all over the yard, you might want to plant in one main area, or purchase a soaker hose that will stay put so you only have to turn the water on. 
     

  • Planning is important, and you’ll save time in the nursery if you decide what you’d like to grow before you go. Check out this list of easy-to-grow flowers from HGTV. 

 

Virtually all gardeners have learned by trial and error, and it’s likely you will, too. Don’t let a few failures keep you from falling in love with growing plants and vegetables. It’s such a rewarding undertaking, and recent studies are even looking at how digging in the dirt can improve your mental health as well! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: kcremodelandgarden.com

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for April 2020

Wednesday, May 20, 2020
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales decrease by 52.3% in April 2020 when compared to April 2019. 459 homes sold in April with a median sales price of $375,000.  The average days on the market remained consistent. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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Keeping Your Smart Home Devices Secure

Friday, May 15, 2020
by Scott Darling


Many have seen the stories of home security cameras that have been hacked in disturbing ways. How can this happen to a security system? How secure are they to the outside world is up to the person who sets it up, which is usually the homeowner. Here are a few ways you can protect your home systems from hackers: 

 

  • Begin with finding out if your email address(es) has been affected by a breach. Go to Have I Been Pwned and enter your email.  If your email has been compromised, it will share the data/app breaches it was involved in, and it would be best to change your email password. 
     

  • When you create a new account for any device, use a different password for every account, even if you’re using the same email. Many people use the same email/password combination for everything, and there lies the problem of their information being available on the dark web, and having their accounts hacked into easily. 
     

  • If you have smart speakers, turning off voice commands, voice purchases, microphone, and camera are simply a matter of going into the device’s settings and change them.  
     

  • Your Wi-Fi router comes with a factory default name and password. It would be a good idea to change those before anyone connects to the router. Use a unique name for your home’s Wi-Fi, and a strong password. Both settings can be changed, and directions are normally in the instruction booklets or ask the internet installer how you can do this. 
     

  •  When a vulnerability is discovered in any device, the company normally updates the firmware. Be sure your smart devices’ automatic updates are “checked” in the settings.  
     

  • New products from new companies are great, but sometimes, it’s best to wait for a reputable, established company to produce a similar product. Those companies have a reputation to uphold and will be more likely to make certain their products are as safe as they can be. 
     

  • This might seem obvious but give your home’s Wi-Fi password only to people you know and trust completely.  

 

While all these measures are good prevention, nothing is completely safe from hackers. If you are proactive about taking the time to make your devices as secure as possible, you will lessen the chances of becoming a victim.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: bitdefender.com

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Virtual Home Buying

Thursday, May 7, 2020
by Scott Darling


For obvious reasons, you won’t be seeing any Open House ads or signs at new homes for sale nearby, and it’s highly unlikely you’ll be going to any showings with your buyer agent. Remote home-buying is nothing new, however, and for this time of staying safe at home, we can learn a few tricks of this type of home purchase, so you don’t have to put that on hold!

  • Get pre-approved now! Current interest rates are just one incentive for buying a new home.
  • With social distancing being the norm, for now, be prepared for a lot of phone conversations, emails, and texts between yourself and your real estate agent.
  • Call a few agents and request an over-the-phone interview to find the one that’s right for you. Be sure they are comfortable and knowledgeable about a virtual house-hunt.
  • You are probably already house-hunting online and saving your favorites. Don’t forget to look at those that may not catch your interest quickly--there are sometimes diamonds in the rough!
  • Type up a list of what you’ll need for a home, as well as extras you’d like to see, and have it ready to email to your agent so they can get to work on looking for houses you might be interested in. Share your online wish list of homes with them as well.
  • Once your Realtor® has a list of homes for you to see, take a 3D or video tour or each, comb through the photos, and ask questions. Ask your agent if they can do a live video tour of the houses that you like the most so you can get a better feel of what the house is actually like.
  • With the exception of places where going to a property for a showing is barred, your agent will be certain that they take proper measures to protect you as well as themselves. Follow all CDC guidelines for slowing the spread of COVID-19.
  • On that note, be sure to understand if a homeowner refuses to show their home if they are still living there.  In case they’re allowing showings, don’t be offended by personal questions about your health. We all have to have some extra understanding and patience these days.

Don’t allow this period of flattening the curve discourage you from buying a new home. In some cases, it may take a little longer, and if there’s an urgent situation that you need to move quickly, share your concerns with your agent, and they’ll be with you every step of that way, even if the home-buying venture is a virtual one.

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: zillow

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Staging Your Home Inexpensively

Wednesday, April 29, 2020
by Scott Darling

If you’ve made the decision to put your home on the market, your Realtor®  has probably told you that staging plays an important part in the sales process.  You have a little painting you’d like to do, as well as do some work in the kitchen, but a full house staging just isn’t in your budget. Don’t be intimidated by the thought of having to fork out a lot of money to make your house looks perfect--there are inexpensive ways to stage your house, and here are just a few: 

  • - Discount department stores are full of inexpensive home decor: faux plants, decorative pillows, framed art and mirrors.  
     

  • - Sheer window panels cost less than half the cost of new curtains, allowing natural light to shine through, which is a huge plus, as a dark house isn’t on very many house hunters’ lists. 
     

  • - After cleaning carpets or even refinishing hardwood floors, an area rug or runner to brighten and protect them may be necessary.  
     

  • - The bathrooms can be given a fresh look with new shower curtains and a set of fluffy white linens in each room. 
     

  • - Big box stores are the source for inexpensive cabinetry hardware, light fixtures, as well as faucets that you may choose to replace. 
     

  • - A vase of fresh flowers brightens any room!  Discount bouquets or even single blossoms can be purchased in department store produce sections or flower markets and can last a week or more if cared for properly. 
     

  • - If you’re planning on placing a bowl of fruit on the kitchen counter, purchase oranges or apples instead of lemons. They can be eaten by the family, which saves money, as they won’t be tossed out! 
     

  • - On the outside, inexpensive mulch can transform the flowerbeds.  Pots with annuals planted in them are all you need for a splash of color on the front steps. 

 

If you must use what you have, like many homeowners, ask your agent if they can recommend a stylist that specializes in redecorating with what is available. The cost would be much less than using an interior decorator, not to mention less stress for you.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: stacidonegan

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Should You Refinance Your Home Mortgage

Tuesday, April 14, 2020
by Scott Darling


When interest rates drop, many who are still paying a mortgage start thinking about refinancing their home. Other reasons why they choose to refinance; the desire to change to a fixed rate, debt consolidation, or hoping to lower their monthly payments. While all of these are good, sound reasons to refinance, they all have pros and cons.  

 

  • - Lowering your interest rate can save money. It will not save much if you’ve already been paying on your home for several years, however, especially if you refinance with a 30-year mortgage. Investopedia says that going for the new rate is a good idea if you can reduce your rate by 2%.
     

  • - When credit card debt is included in a debt consolidation refinance, homeowners risk losing their home for unsecured debt if they cannot keep up the payments. Credit counseling would be a better step to take first if you are considering debt consolidation to pay off credit cards. 
     

  • - Refinancing to lower your monthly payment sounds great until you realize that a lower payment only comes with a longer pay-back term and paying more interest in the end. 
     

  • - Let’s say you’re making more money and would like to shorten the term of your mortgage by having a higher monthly payment. Nerdwallet suggests that you ask yourself a few questions, then decide if you should refinance or just pay more on your current loan every month.
     

  • - Has your credit score gone up? If so, find out if you can get a better interest rate as a result. Again, be sure you’ll be saving money in the end before you sign the dotted line. 
     

  • - You can turn your home’s equity into cash with a cash-out refinance, and if the money is needed for some home improvements or investing, it may be a better way to get the cash. The drawback comes in when the return on investment doesn’t work out, and the equity in the home is lost. 

 

Closely examining your reasons and goals for refinancing will help you make this decision. Don’t forget to factor in closing costs and other refinancing fees. These can add up, just like when the house was first purchased, and may not be much of a savings at all when it’s all said and done. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: investopedia 

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Support Local Businesses Without Going Shopping

Wednesday, April 8, 2020
by Scott Darling

Small businesses are the backbone of our country’s economy, and many of them--namely in the food service industry--are hurting right now. What can individuals do to help them now? Don’t think of it as helping a business stay open but helping friends and neighbors during a time of crisis! 

  • Do you already have a monthly purchase at a local boutique or a pedicure in your budget?  Go ahead and call them and buy a gift certificate/card/credit in that same amount. Using it for the future would be great, but once everything is back to normal, give the gift card to someone else, and continue your normal shopping with the store. 
     

  • If those same establishments have their own merchandise, why not buy a t-shirt, mug or car sticker along with your gift card purchase? 
     

  • If it’s allowed, order takeout from your favorite restaurants, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Many eateries are bundling dishes into family meals and offering curbside delivery, making it easier for you to order. 
     

  • Some local businesses have online shopping available; if so, do your shopping that way. Most business owners are certain that everything is handled properly and will offer shipping or pick-up at the door. 
     

  • Leave a review for your favorites at any online review site, business Facebook page, or other social media. Everyone needs the encouragement, plus, it helps others decide whether to do business with the establishment in the future. 
     

  • Don’t forget your local produce stands and farmers’ markets! Grocery store chains must wait for deliveries, so if they’re out of your favorite lettuce, call around to the local stands to see what’s available. 
     

Many businesses are offering free shipping for online orders and are making it easier to shop via social media. It may take some creativity, but we can all do our best and do our part to help our local businesses, our local economies, and our neighbors. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: twitter

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Social Distancing Tips for You and Your Family

Friday, April 3, 2020
by Scott Darling

Schools are closing all over the country, businesses are closing temporarily, and more people are staying put at home.  It’s hard not to be anxious during this time of uncertainty but staying home shouldn’t be a bad thing! Relieve some of the extra stress with any of these distractions for the kids, and yourself! 

Ideas for the Kids   

  • First and foremost, be certain you have some schoolwork time. Teachers and school administrators across the country are doing their best to keep your children learning, whether through online access or hard-copy work being sent home.  If having a designated area becomes tedious, allow them to make a work area on the floor, in a homemade tent, outside in the backyard--it doesn’t matter where it’s done, so long as they work on their assignments. 
     

  • If you have a book lover and can’t get to the library, check out these free read-aloud sites: Storyline Online is sponsored by the Screen Actors Guild, and you’ll find the likes of Betty White reading Harry the Dirty Dog;  Barnes & Noble has nineteen children’s classics; We Are Teachers has author read-aloud and activities for up to middle-school ages. 
     

  • You don’t have to be stuck inside--teach children the joy of old school games like Mother May I?, Simon Says, Red Light Green Light, hide and seek, and good old tag are all great games to play that you can participate in, and help the kids (and maybe you, too!) release some pent-up energy. Fatherly has some great ideas to play when you must be inside. 
     

  • Fun science experiments with common household items can be fun for everyone! 
     

  • When nerves start getting frazzled, the younger kids will like Cosmic Kids Yoga videos on YouTube. 

 

Tips for the Grown-Ups 

  • According to RescueTime, we are only truly productive for 2.8 hours per day. Taking that into consideration if you’re having to work from home, break up your work and the children’s learning time into two 90-minute periods, or three one-hour periods.  
     

  • Practicing social distancing simply means you’re not going out to public places, nor are you spending time with friends and family. Need to go for a jog? It’s fine! Need some reading time in the sunshine? Use your backyard or balcony!  
     

  • Start Spring cleaning, get the garden ready, or get to those little DIY jobs you’ve been putting off! 
     

  • Have you been wanting to learn a skill, like watercolor, knitting, or something else you can do at home? Look for instructional videos on YouTube and get started--you have no excuse! 
     

  • Check on your neighbors. If you can call them or text them, do; in the case of an elderly neighbor that lives alone, leave a note in their mailbox or taped to their front door with your phone number, asking them to call if there’s anything they need, even if it’s just to talk.
     

We must keep in mind that “This too, shall pass.” Some days will be harder than others during the next few weeks, but with a good attitude, and that adage in mind, you will get through. Stay connected to friends and family and remind yourself that you’re simply keeping yourself and your family members as safe as you can in uncertain times! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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Invest Your Tax Refund in Your Home

Monday, March 23, 2020
by Scott Darling


A recent survey by Credit Karma shows that “46% of respondents expect to get refunds of more than $1,000 in 2020 (for their 2019 taxes)...” Now, we won’t get into the financial sense of tax refunds, but if you are one of that 46%, and you’re planning on doing some homework with your refund, here are a few suggestions on how best to spend that money! 

 

$1,000 or Less 

  • Add or improve your front walkway.  Whether you plan on putting your home on the market soon or not, a new walkway will improve the curb appeal.  

  • Replacing the front door is an expensive job, but you can create a whole new look for the front exterior of your home just by having a new front entranceway. 

  • Install new light fixtures, especially if you’re tired of the builders-grade fixtures. If you shop smart, you can get stylish new flush-mount lights for every room. 

  • Do a minor bathroom renovation:  replace the toilet, faucets, and lights, and give the tub/shower a makeover with a refinishing kit. 

  • Paint the kitchen cabinets, replace the hardware, and add a tile backsplash. You won’t believe what a difference those three minor renos will make! 

  • Upgrade one appliance - kitchen appliance.  

 

$1,000-$2,000 

  • Any repairs that you’ve put off because of cost should be done before any improvements to renovating is done. Protecting your investment is more important than new bathroom tile. 

  • If your front lawn is a black canvas, hire a landscape designer to create some improvements.  

  • Have your “popcorn” ceilings removed by a pro and add new crown molding.  

  • Tankless water heaters, whether you choose whole-house or single-point, are worth the investment as you’ll see a difference in your electric bills. 

  • If you’re handy, you can take on a DIY job and save money: paint your home’s exterior, install new flooring, add wainscoting, or install kitchen countertops. 
     

As much as you’d like to see something physical after spending your tax refund, paying any accumulated debt down or investing it will pay you back in the long run. Check out these ideas from Investopedia,  and take off some of that financial load you may be bearing! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: the money pit 

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Why Your Mortgage Payments Change

Wednesday, March 11, 2020
by Scott Darling

Your mortgage payment is probably the largest one in your monthly budget, and you assume it will be the same amount for the next 30 years. That may not always be the case, however, and that depends on a few factors. Be prepared for changes, and understand those changes: 

  • - If you paid less than a 20% down payment, you are required to have Mortgage Insurance with FHA and USDA loans, while Private Mortgage Insurance is required with other lenders. In some cases, these can be removed, and your mortgage payment will reflect the change. 
     

  • - An Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) has a set interest rate for a certain amount of time, and after that time is up, the interest rate will vary. When the rates change, your payments will, too. Learn more about ARMs from Investopedia. 
     

  • - Changes in escrow are almost unavoidable. What is escrow? The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s definition: “An escrow account...is set up by your mortgage lender to pay certain property-related expenses.”  When property taxes or insurance premiums increase, your current payments won’t reflect that change, and that results in an escrow shortage. The shorted amount will be added to your loan payment, plus the new amount for adjusted increases. To avoid paying extra every month for the shortage, pay the amount in full as soon as you receive your annual escrow statement. 
     

  • - What if you don’t have an escrow account on your mortgage, and you don’t pay your property taxes?  Lenders don’t want to foreclose on a home because of delinquent property taxes. To protect their money, they can add the amount to your current loan payment or open an escrow account for your loan. 
     

  • - Homeowners insurance is a requirement when you have a loan on the home. If yours lapses, or you don’t have enough insurance on the house, lenders have the right to purchase a policy, called “forced-place insurance.” They will send you the bill for the premium, which is probably more expensive than your current payment.  

 

While escrow accounts aren’t always a requirement, it would benefit your budget to request one when you are applying for the mortgage. Keep an eye on your insurance information as well as your property taxes so you won’t be surprised when your monthly payment increases. Having an emergency savings account can help ease any of these burdens.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: masonfinance

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