Brian Ward, Realtor - The Brian Ward Team w/ Coldwell Banker

06/19/2026

How to Maintain Decks and Patios for Long-Term Use
Your outdoor living space is worth protecting. Whether you have a wood deck, a composite platform, or a poured concrete patio, neglect tends to compound quickly. A small crack ignored now can become a serious repair bill later. The good news? Most of what keeps these spaces in good shape is straightforward...

Your outdoor living space is worth protecting. Whether you have a wood deck, a composite platform, or a poured concrete patio, neglect tends to compound quickly. A small crack ignored now can become a serious repair bill later. The good news? Most of what keeps these spaces in good shape is...

06/18/2026

First-time homebuyers: Avoid these 7 common mistakes. 🚨

1️⃣ Overspending: Don’t forget to budget for property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other ongoing costs.

2️⃣ Neglecting your credit score: A stronger score can help you qualify for better mortgage terms.

3️⃣ Skipping pre-approval: Knowing your budget upfront makes the home search much less stressful.

4️⃣ Ignoring the home inspection: What you can’t see today could cost you tomorrow.

5️⃣ Draining your savings: Keep a cushion for unexpected repairs, moving expenses, and life’s surprises.

6️⃣ Prioritizing the house over the location: You can change the house. You can’t change where it’s located.

7️⃣ Rushing the process: The right home is worth waiting for.

After 30+ years helping Capital Region buyers navigate the market, I’ve learned that good decisions start with a plan, not a deadline.

Thinking about buying your first home? Call me at (518) 229-7355 and let’s make sure you’re prepared before you start house hunting.

06/18/2026

Knicks Parade Day....Insane

06/18/2026

This is nuts...NY Knicks NBA Champions

06/17/2026

Before you schedule a showing, try this first!

Pull the home up on Google Maps.
Not just the house—the area around it.

What’s behind the property? A busy road? Power lines? A commercial building? Or maybe a park, walking trail, or open space that could add value.

The photos in a listing tell part of the story. The neighborhood, surroundings, and future resale potential tell the rest.

After more than 30 years helping Capital Region families buy and sell homes, I’ve learned that some of the most important details never make it into the listing photos.

Thinking about buying? Before you book your next showing, let’s compare notes first. Call me at (518) 229-7355.

06/16/2026

🏡 First time selling your home? Start here.

Selling a home can feel like a lot, especially when you’ve never done it before. The good news? A little preparation and a good agent go a long way.

1️⃣ Understand your local market.
2️⃣ Price your home competitively.
3️⃣ Declutter, clean, and prepare your space.
4️⃣ Invest in professional photos.
5️⃣ Keep your home ready for showings.
6️⃣ Know your bottom line before negotiations begin.

These may sound simple, but they’re some of the biggest factors that can impact your sale.

Over the past 30+ years, I’ve helped Capital Region homeowners avoid common first-time seller mistakes—from overpricing their home to overlooking the small details that can influence a buyer’s first impression.

Thinking about selling? Call me at (518) 229-7355 and let’s talk about your goals before you put your home on the market.

06/16/2026

06/15/2026

Questions Buyers Should Ask About Utility Costs
Before you fall in love with a home, it's worth asking a question that often gets overlooked: What does it actually cost to live here? The purchase price is just the beginning. Monthly utility bills can vary wildly from one property to the next, and they can significantly affect how comfortable that...

Before you fall in love with a home, it's worth asking a question that often gets overlooked: What does it actually cost to live here? The purchase price is just the beginning. Monthly utility bills can vary wildly from one property to the next, and they can significantly affect how comfortable...

06/14/2026

Cait and Ellie