Cheri Secre - Brokers Realty

06/23/2025

The Pros and Cons of Selling in the Summer
Summer is a hot season for real estate — and not just because of the weather. With longer days, vacation time, and blooming gardens, many homeowners choose summer as the best time to put their property on the market. But is it the right time for you to sell? Like any season, summer has its advantages...

06/21/2025

Watering Smarter: Lawn and Garden Tips for Hot Weather
When summer temperatures soar, maintaining a lush lawn and vibrant garden can often feel like a losing battle. But with a few strategic adjustments, you can keep your yard thriving while using water more efficiently. Whether you're facing drought conditions or just trying to reduce your utility bill,...

06/19/2025

Everything to Know About Property Taxes
When calculating the cost of owning a home, a major monthly expense that first-time buyers often overlook is property taxes. Understanding how they work and how they'll affect your budget is crucial for making a smart purchase and planning for long-term affordability.
What Are Property Taxes?
Property...

06/16/2025

What's Next After Accepting an Offer? A Step-by-Step Guide
Whether your home was on the market for a few days or a few months, it's always a memorable moment when you receive an offer you can feel good about. Accepting an offer on your home is a major milestone, but it's not the finish line just yet. The period between offer acceptance and closing can be just...

Whether your home was on the market for a few days or a few months, it's always a memorable moment when you receive an offer you can feel good about. Accepting an offer on your home is a major milestone, but it's not the finish line just yet. The period between offer acceptance and closing can...

06/14/2025

The Homeowner's Guide to Safe Summer Entertaining
Summer is the season for barbecues, backyard parties, and evening get-togethers under the stars. As a homeowner, hosting warm-weather gatherings can be one of the greatest joys of the season, but it also comes with its share of responsibilities. From food safety to fire prevention and guest comfort,...

Summer is the season for barbecues, backyard parties, and evening get-togethers under the stars. As a homeowner, hosting warm-weather gatherings can be one of the greatest joys of the season, but it also comes with its share of responsibilities. From food safety to fire prevention and guest...

06/12/2025

Should You Buy a Home With a Pool? The Pros, Cons, and What to Know
A backyard pool is often regarded as the ultimate luxury, especially during the sweltering summer months. For many buyers, it evokes images of relaxing weekends, fun-filled gatherings, and a personal oasis just steps from the back door. But before diving into a home with a pool, it's important to weigh...

06/09/2025

Vacation Season Selling: Should You List While You're Away?
Summer is a popular time for home buyers — and for travel. But what happens when both hit at once? If you're planning a getaway just as you're getting ready to sell your home, you might wonder: Should I list while I'm away?
The short answer? Yes, you can list while you're on vacation — but it takes...

06/07/2025

Getting Ready for Swimming Season: Pool Preparation 101
As the summer draws near, most homeowners have already tackled their spring cleaning to-do list. Closets are organized, windows are sparkling, and the yard is ready for backyard lounging. But if you own a pool, there's a good chance a few key tasks have slipped through the cracks. Late spring is the...

06/05/2025

Family-Friendly Home Buying: Planning Ahead for the School Year
Buying a new home is always a big decision, but if you have school-aged children, the timing is even more crucial. As spring turns to summer, many families find themselves rushing to get settled before the next school year begins. If you're hoping to move this summer, planning now can make all the difference...

Buying a new home is always a big decision, but if you have school-aged children, the timing is even more crucial. As spring turns to summer, many families find themselves rushing to get settled before the next school year begins. If you're hoping to move this summer, planning now can make all...

06/02/2025

Should You Sell or Keep Your Vacation Rental?
Owning a vacation rental can be a rewarding investment, both financially and personally. However, as market conditions shift and your personal goals evolve, you may wonder: Should I sell my vacation property or keep it as a long-term investment? The answer depends on a mix of factors.
Here's what to...

Owning a vacation rental can be a rewarding investment, both financially and personally. However, as market conditions shift and your personal goals evolve, you may wonder: Should I sell my vacation property or keep it as a long-term investment? The answer depends on a mix of factors. Here's...

05/31/2025

Don't Let Summer Bite: DIY Pest-Proofing Tips That Actually Work
As temperatures rise and windows open wide, summer brings more than just sunshine and barbecues — it also invites an unwelcome wave of pests into our homes. From ants and mosquitoes to wasps and mice, these seasonal intruders can quickly turn your summer bliss into a constant battle.
The good news?...

05/29/2025

From Beachfront to Lakefront: What to Know Before You Buy a Vacation Rental
Buying a vacation rental property is an exciting investment that can offer both a relaxing getaway destination and a reliable stream of income. But before you dive into the world of vacation real estate — whether you're dreaming of ocean views or lakeside serenity — there are a few key things every...