Housing Sales Up

New home sales continue to improve with the latest numbers for April showing a 26% increase over sales from last year. According to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce and Department of Housing and Urban Development, sales of newly-constructed single-family homes reached 517,000 in April; a 6.8% rise over sales in March. In the South, home sales rose 5.6 percent.

Nationally there is a 4.8 month supply of new homes available. As home sales increase you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to own in the location of your choosing, with the features that you want, at a price that will be lower than it will be six months from now.  Now is the time to buy!

Take Time to Remember

This weekend is the unofficial kick-off to summer. Many will be celebrating with backyard BBQ’s, trips to the lake, family picnics or fireworks. In the midst of these celebrations don’t forget the real reason for Memorial Day – a time set apart to remember those who gave their lives fighting for our freedom.

According to The Memorial Day Foundation, over 1 million Americans made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country. Our service men and women overseas continue to fight for all the United States stands for in places like Afghanistan and Iraq.  Other members of our military serve in peacekeeping missions across the globe in places like Kuwait, Turkey, Egypt, South Korea and Honduras.

So this Memorial Day take a moment to remember the lives lost and sacrifices made by our military and their loved ones.  Take the time to watch a parade, thank a service member when you see them out or contribute to one of the many foundations set up for surviving family members of fallen soldiers.

 “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” – President Harry S. Truman

Summer Home Maintenance

Each season calls for its own home maintenance chores to keep your home in the best shape possible! As it warms up outside - here are a few things to be doing inside!

1. Check all smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly and change batteries if it's been several months since doing so.
2. Clean all ceiling fans to remove dust and debris.
3. Wash and shine windows to take advantage of increased hours of sunlight.
4. With more activity outdoors - keep floors clean by placing doormats inside and outside of all exterior doors.
5. Going to be grilling? Make sure your grill is in good working order, clean and has a full tank of gas if necessary.

Don't forget your yard! Make sure all yard equipment is clean and sharpened. Think about laying mulch to help keep in moisture and keep out weeds. Come up with a watering schedule to keep your lawn looking great while using the least amount of water - think a.m. and p.m. waterings.


What seasonal maintenance do you do as it warms up?

Stargazing

One of the great things about a new home are the possibilities of your indoor and outdoor living space. Don't forget how much fun can be had just right in your own backyard.
No matter your yard size, having your own little piece of earth is an amazing privilege.

Take advantage of the warm, clear evenings to do some stargazing from home.  Here are a few ways to get the best view.

1. Set up a comfy viewing area. Bring out a blanket, some snacks or drinks, pull on a sweatshirt and gaze from your favorite outdoor chair.

2. Check the weather report. Pick a clear night when the moon isn't full - it may be too bright to see the stars around it.

3. Start with the unaided eye. There is so much to see without needing a telescope or fancy equipment. Look online to see what stars are out and easiest to see this time of year. If you want to see further, use a pair of binoculars to start.

4. Relax and wait. Give your eyes between 5 to 30 minutes to adjust to the outdoor evening light.

5. Record what you see. Keep a journal of what you see including constellations, planets or shooting stars.