According to Case Design/ Remodeling Inc., here are a few of the biggest trends to watch in 2007: • Faucets. Personalized design is aimed at
providing homeowners with a relaxing environment while they bathe or shower.
• Concrete and glass countertops. Concrete can take any shape, a plus for designers, and it is not as costly as some other naturalstone materials. Glass - in all shapes, colors, thicknesses and textures - is also showing up in ultra-modern kitchen designs.
• Shower seating. Inspired by upscale spas, seats in showers have become one of the latest trends in master bathrooms.
• Outdoor kitchens. Whether built from the ground up or on an existing patio, outdoor kitchens boost resale value and offer limitless possibilities.
• Energy-efficient materials and appliances. Windows and doors, washing machines, dishwashers, ranges and refrigerators feature sleek designs, innovation and all the latest amenities to help homeowners become more energy- and resource-efficient and save money.

2007 Risa's "Thank You for Being my Client" party was the BEST party ever!! Go see the pics at Risas Party

This months joke:

Question:Which runs faster, hot or cold?

Answer: Hot. Everyone can catch a cold.

Facts

Generation Y is about to become a significant part of the homeowner market. Consumers born between 1974 and 1980 owned only 7 percent of U.S. households in 2005, but 26 percent of them plan to buy homes in 2007.
Source: National Association of Home Builders

Some Real Estate humor:

Realtor sign—We have “lots” to be thankful for.

Did you hear about Robin Hood’s house? It has a little John.

If you want to know exactly where the property line is, just watch the neighbor cut the grass.

A lot of homes have been spoiled by inferior desecrators.
–Frank Lloyd Wright

Question:Should you have an open house?

Answer: An open house can be a great way to sell your home. It can also be an open invitation to prying eyes. To keep your personal life, well, personal, here are some steps you can take to snoop-proof your house when prospective buyers are around:
1. Clear away mail and paperwork from all surfaces (desktops, countertops, coffee table). Lock up extra-sensitive documents (bank statements, passport, social security card, etc.).
2. Remove diplomas and personal photos from your walls.
3. Store family heirlooms. You don't want your personal effects to distract buyers. A tidy and uncluttered space will help them imagine themselves in the home.
4. Organize closets. Some visitors have no qualms about opening closets and cabinets and peeking into other generally off-limit areas. Be prepared by making sure those hidden areas are in tip-top shape.

Have questions? email Risa at questions@risa.net or call her at 1-800-699-4901

May favorite links:

Great Mother's Day Site

Use This Moving Truck for FREE      

RE/MAX Town & Country Realty has a moving truck (pictured above) that our clients can use FREE for their local (inside the Metro-Orlando area) moves. When Risa helps you buy or sell a home, just let her know that you would like to use the RE/MAX Moving Truck. Then Ray, the Moving Truck Coordinator, will coordinate your reservation to use the truck for a 24 hour period and outline all of the details for the truck’s use. Tell Risa early on in your transaction that you’d like to use the truck to make sure that you can reserve the best time for your move! We’re glad to be able to offer this additional service to our clients. Risa Saltman wants to help make your moving process as smooth, enjoyable and efficient as possible.

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