Cierra Woods Realty, 2202 Woodlands Pkwy, Clive, IA (2026)

08/30/2021

You asked! I'm answering! Without further ado, here are your mortgage questions answered:⁣
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Q: How long is a pre-approval good for?⁣
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A: You definitely will want to get a pre-approval, but wait until you’re ready to buy since a pre-approval is only valid for about 30-90 days. ⁣⁣
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Q: How much should my down payment be?⁣
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A: Twenty percent is the gold standard, but you can often put down less than depending on the loan type. For example, an FHA loan requires as little as 3.5% down.⁣⁣
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Q: What are the different types of mortgage loans?⁣
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A: All sorts! You have conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and more! Talk with several lenders to gather their opinions before deciding which is right for you. ⁣
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Q: How much home can I afford?⁣
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A: A good rule of thumb? Two-and-a-half times your annual salary. But it’s best to speak with a lender to find out what you qualify for and to get a pre-approval letter.⁣⁣
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Got more questions? Shoot me a message or drop it in the comments. I’d love to chat and point you in the right direction as you think about buying.⁣

07/28/2021

"I want to buy a home, I just don't even know where to start."⁣
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Does this sound like you? Or, what about...⁣
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"I'd really like to sell and move in to something bigger. I just don't know where to begin."⁣
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I hear these things all the time. A real estate transaction is a big deal, and it's important that the timing is right for you. ⁣
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I'm going to leave you with a motivational quote I love by Mark Twain!
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“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and starting on the first one.”⁣
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My clients tell me one of the things they love about working with me is the way I break down the transaction step-by-step, and make sure they are informed and comfortable along the way. ⁣
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Fall is coming quickly, if you're looking to be in a new home by the holidays shoot me a message and I'll help you figure out your first step.

07/26/2021

Buyers are on high alert when they pull up to your home. Stop ‘em in their tracks with these curb appeal tips:⁣
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1. Edge the driveway. Keeping the grass cut is a must, but if you wanna go the extra mile, edge the sides of your driveway and walkway for an even more manicured look.⁣
2. Seasonal color. No time for a complete yard makeover? No worries. Splash your front porch with planters of seasonal color.⁣
3. Mailbox makeover. Mailbox looking dingy? Grab some spray paint and new mailbox numbers to impress buyers and make finding your house a cinch.⁣
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Thinking about selling? Up for an initial conversation just to test the waters? Send me a DM or drop me a comment below.⁣

07/23/2021

Choosing fixtures for your home can be complicated. If you’ve ever visited a lighting store, you know exactly what I’m talking about. ⁣
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To break it down into bite-sized bits, it might be helpful to review the three different types of lighting:⁣
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1. Ambient lighting: the main source of light in a room (think overhead fixtures or recessed lighting).⁣
2. Task lighting: the lighting “tasked” for activities such as working or reading (meant to illuminate a small area; not an entire room).⁣
3. Accent lighting: the most decorative lighting in a room (think chandeliers, sconces, and lamps).⁣
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As you plan, remember most rooms have two types of lighting—some all three. Make a list of the rooms in your home and the different types of lighting you need. Then, you can shop with clarity and purpose even amidst the blinding lights.⁣

07/14/2021

You get one chance to make a first impression so you wanna get it right. With 90% of buyers beginning their search online—especially this year—those listing photos matter, folks!⁣
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To get the most out of your home’s glam session, follow these real estate pre-shoot tips:⁣
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✓ Vacuum carpet and mop floors.⁣
✓ Clear and clean kitchen counters.⁣
✓ Clear and clean bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers.⁣
✓ Replace burned-out lightbulbs.⁣
✓ Open all blinds and window treatments.⁣
✓ Turn ON all the lights (Yep—all of them!).⁣
✓ Turn OFF TVs, computers, and ceiling fans.⁣
✓ Remove runners, floor mats, and bath mats.⁣
✓ Clear appliances of magnets, papers, and photos.⁣
✓ Make all beds.⁣
✓ Place all shoes and clothes in closets.⁣
✓ Get rid of pets and pet items (toys, food bowls, crates, etc.).⁣
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If you’re short on time, focus on two things: 1) CLEANING and, 2) CLEARING. Then, take a deep breath and leave the rest to your agent and professional real estate photographer. You—and buyers—are gonna be WOWED by your home's photos!

07/09/2021

It’s all the things...farmer’s markets, feet in the sand, family vacay, fireworks, flip-flops….I could go on and on!⁣
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But hot summer days also mean homeowners need to give attention to a few time-sensitive tasks around the house. ⁣
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No need to stress—knock ‘em out early in the season and then get those toes back in the sand where they belong. Here’s a shortlist of summer maintenance jobs to help get you started:⁣
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1. Cut back overgrown vegetation from your home’s walls and fences.⁣
2. Inspect your exterior for loose or rotted siding.⁣
3. Wash windows inside and out.⁣
4. Service your AC and change air filters.⁣
5. Power wash your driveway and sidewalks.⁣
6. Wash and stain or reseal your deck.⁣
7. Empty out gutters and downspouts.⁣
8. Clean your dryer vent and exhaust duct.⁣
9. Service the grill by closing the lid, turning the heat on high, and letting it cook for about a half-hour.⁣
10. Refresh landscaping by adding a layer of fresh mulch (I much prefer double-ground).⁣
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Curious about homeownership and what it means for you? I’d love to chat. Reach out and let’s connect.⁣

07/07/2021

With rising temps, blazin’ hot rays, and aggravating pests threatening to take over, your fledgling garden may need some extra TLC this time of year. Keep it healthy—and growin’ like a weed—with these expert tips:⁣
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1. Water Smart – Experts say it’s better to liberally water 2x per week rather than more frequently with less water.⁣
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2. Water in the A.M. – Avoid watering in the evening when warm temps and moisture prompts fungus growth. Your best bet? Do your heavy watering morning—coffee cup in hand, of course.⁣
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3. Feeding frenzy – Your plants and veggies need more than water during the summer months. Consider a quick-release fertilizer every three to four weeks.⁣
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4. Keep an eye out – Remove diseased, damaged, or dead debris from your plants. They'll only stunt growth. Watch for weeds, too—they'll steal nutrients and water so catch ‘em and pull 'em before they spread.⁣
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5. Know your bugs – Bugs come out in droves during the summer months. It’s important to know what you're up against so you can get the right products to boot.⁣
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One more thing...you DON'T have to garden alone! Most U.S. counties have an extension office with horticulture experts and volunteers trained to answer ALL your gardening questions. Don't hesitate to reach out and tap into their expertise!⁣
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Happy summer, all, and happy gardening!⁣

07/06/2021

Meet the Smiths. ⁣
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The Smiths pay $1000 in RENT every month for a three-bedroom, two-bath home with a fenced-in backyard.⁣
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What they don’t know is for that same amount, they could BUY a $211,000 home (at 3% interest) and not see a change in their monthly budget.⁣
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With home prices appreciating 6.7% last year alone (as of September 2020), that same home could be worth close to $225,000 in just one year. ⁣
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THIS -- Instead of paying $12,000 in rent, the Smiths would have gained $14,000 in equity!⁣
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In almost every circumstance, it pays to buy vs. rent. Want to talk more about it and look at the numbers? Let’s do it! Leave a comment or send me a DM, and I'll be in touch.⁣

07/02/2021

Your house is on the market or better yet, under contract. Score! What that means {{besides YOU landing top dollar for your home}}, is it's time to play the "what to keep, what not to keep" game.⁣
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But wait! ⁣
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Before you feel in over your head, here are a few tips to help you ease into the oft-overwhelming task:⁣
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1. Do you want to start fresh with new furnishings? Or do you know your current pieces will fit in your new home? Either way, keep in mind that lead times on furniture are WAY longer than normal right so it may be smart to take at least a handful basic pieces with you when you move.⁣
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2. Keep what you love. That end table that's just okay, the chairs that are just meh, those throw pillows you've had for what feels like forever—it's time to let it all go! You have permission. Go on, be ruthless, and get rid of anything you don't love! ⁣
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3. Sell anything that isn't serving you. Don't keep knick-knacks and furnishings around just because you don't want it to go to waste. Sell it and use the money to fund something you DO love! FB Marketplace and LetGo are great places to start. ⁣
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4. Donate what's left. Now that you know what you're keeping and selling the rest, it's time to donate! Pro tip: If you wouldn't buy it again, don't take it with you. Leave it behind!⁣
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Already a purging prodigy? Share your wisdom! What are some ways you stay on top of things in your home?

06/24/2021

Dreaming of an extravagant backyard oasis this summer? Right there with you, friend...⁣
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Does yours include?⁣
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– A crystal clear and perfectly cool zero-edge pool with spa, waterfall, and tanning ledge?⁣
– Tropical paradise landscaping with the perfect balance of sun and shade?⁣
– A handful of zero-gravity recliners surrounded by the latest waterproof sound system?⁣
– An after-sunset lounge area with a fire pit sensibly positioned by the largest outdoor grill money can buy?⁣
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If you’ve got , share below. I’d love to hear!⁣
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Curious about ROI? Send me a DM or reach out before you move one scoop of dirt. I’ll let you know which backyard projects will give you the best return in 2021 (not to mention, wow your neighbors!).

06/22/2021

Previewed this beautiful home on Park Ave today! Contact me today if you want this to be your dream home.

Cierra Woods
515-971-6548
[email protected]
RE/MAX Precision
Licensed to sell real estate in Iowa

06/22/2021

When it comes to home reno projects, it's important to know which upgrades are worth your while. ⁣
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Here are 4 high-ROI improvements that buyers (and you) will love:⁣
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1. Open up the floor plan. Knock down walls and create the spacious layout that's on many buyers' wishlists. ⁣
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2. Install hardwood floors or refinish your current ones. According to NAR, refinishing hardwood floors will recoup 100% of the cost at resale, while new hardwood floors recover 106% of costs.⁣
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3. Swap out fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms. New k***s, pulls, and faucets, are an inexpensive way to create a cohesive, modern look. ⁣
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4. Paint in a neutral palette. This allows buyers to picture their things in your space. Some go-to's? Accessible Beige (SW7036), Agreeable Gray (SW7029), and Alabaster (SW7008).⁣
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Choose upgrades that make sense. Ones that make your house feel more like home, and will have a high ROI when it comes time to sell. Not all buyers have the vision to see what your home could be, so even little changes will help them see the bigger picture.⁣
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Cierra Woods Realty

08/30/2021

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