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The supply and demand for real estate has been doing some odd things for a while now. The effect of the Great Recession has created a somewhat unusual flow of homes coming onto the market for sale largely based on the actions of large banks intermittently releasing parts of their inventories of foreclosures on their books.

Whether their actions are good or bad for the market isn’t the topic here, though. What we’d like to do is help buyers understand what, exactly, they may be up against as they go shopping for their next home in Southern Nevada. Because one thing we see often is the seller having a choice of which offer they want to accept. And when you have just fallen head-over-heels for a home, it’s scary to think that the final decision of who gets it is completely out of your hands.

Or is it?

While there may be some things that can’t be overcome (for example, when a buyer makes a financial offer much higher than you can afford to pay) – for the most part, people tend to start out on a relatively equal footing. Most people will work with realistic appraisal estimates, most will need to obtain mortgage financing, etc. But there are a few things you can do that might help tip the scales in your favor.

First thing to remember: Sellers are people, too.

Okay, okay – we know that sounds obvious. But what we want to convey is that in being ‘human’ – their opinions and feelings can often be swayed with the smallest of issues; and if all things are equal financially in the multiple offers they received, then what will they base their final decision on?

We like to think that the numerous tips we’re about to give you all fall under one basic umbrella: Respect.

When you have gone out of your way to show a seller respect – for their time, their hospitality, their consideration, and their privacy – those are awfully easy (and free) things you can do in your interactions with that seller to build a bond of sorts that could just get you that purchase contract you’re longing for. Let’s get started, shall we?

Get Your Mortgage Loan Pre-Approved

We tend to harp on this topic in many of our posts – but that’s because it is such an important thing to do for so many reasons. In this particular context – when you’re trying to convince a seller that you are their best choice among many offers – you want to be able to clearly demonstrate these three things:

(a) You can afford to buy this home;

(b) Your financing has already been reviewed and approved by a reputable mortgage lender; and

(c) You are ready, willing, and able to get to closing

Having that ace up your sleeve – especially when many other buyers haven’t taken the same steps already – can easily move your name to the top of that “Consideration” list.

Be On Time

And if you can’t be on time, let everyone know that as quickly as possible.

Acknowledge the fact that selling a home can be a real time-suck. Sellers need to keep things neat, clean, and tidy at all times, rearrange their schedules to meet with Realtors™ and potential buyers, perhaps they’re meeting workmen to get minor repairs done – there’s a lot of work involved for the seller, alone.

So if you’ve made an appointment to view a home, be punctual. Running late? Call ahead and ask if they would prefer to reschedule – and definitely don’t let that happen more than once. Late appointments or no-call/no-shows until after one was scheduled can leave a bad taste in a seller’s mouth – about you. (insert demerit point for that!)

Show Courtesy for Their Home and Space

This is far from being an exhaustive list, since every home and seller will have its own special circumstances. But start with these items as your rule of thumb – and remember, it is simply not possible to be TOO courteous. So when in doubt, impress them with your consideration.

• Be respectful of parking. Don’t inconvenience the neighbors, and don’t block the seller’s cars in the driveway. If you need to walk from down the street a few houses, that’s a small price to pay to avoid making a poorly-timed bad impression.

• Remove your shoes. This may not make a difference to all sellers – but it may make a huge difference to YOUR seller. Stay on the safe side. In many cultures, it is a huge faux pas to wear shoes inside at all. It’s a whole lot easier just to not risk it at all.

• Don’t overwhelm them with a huge group of people to view their home. Try to minimize to just the heads of the household – at least for the initial visit. Forego the parents and best friends accompanying you; and on the first visit, it’s wise to skip bringing the kids. There is a liability that the seller assumes having people in their home – and think about it from their point of view. It’s uncomfortable to have people wander off from the group and then having to wonder/worry what someone is doing in the bedroom when you’re all in the kitchen, etc. If you decide this is the home for you – schedule a time to bring the rest of the household with you to view it at a later date.

• Don’t take photos without asking permission. Especially in this day and age – with the potential for an image to go literally from non-existent to a media sensation in mere moments. Many people go to great lengths to protect their privacy specifically from this possibility. If you’d like some images to help you plan and remember specific things – ask the owner if they would mind if you take a photo, and frame the image it in a way that they will be comfortable with.

Certainly there are many other thoughtful considerations you can put into play during your interactions with a seller – but remember this: You don’t know until you see a home if it may be “The One” that you simply must own. That means you want to practice these particular etiquettes – and perhaps others that your Realtor™ will recommend – with every home you visit in your search. Do that, and you’re going to be miles ahead of your potential competition to be the new owner!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Life wasn’t meant to be all about work. At least, that’s what the team at New Home Resource agrees on. If you’re going to work hard, you want to play just as hard – and they do. But they also have one other very closely held belief: To give back to the community that’s been good to you.

Led by Broker Joanna Piette, taking the time to give back to Southern Nevada charities is simply built right into the schedule at New Home Resource.

“All of our agents and staff care deeply about different organizations in our city – so when there’s an event that we want to volunteer our time and efforts to help make it a success – we love to get involved,” Piette explains. “We’ll close the office, turn on our voice mail, set up our email auto-reply – and for that day, we’re all fully focused on doing our part for the community.

And that’s precisely what’s going to be taking place this week – Thursday, April 7. The New Home Resource team is taking their show on the road, so to speak – to lend a hand at the “Backpack For Kids” program at the Three Square Food Bank.

Here in Southern Nevada, Three Square works year-round to help the over 300,000 people who are food-insecure – meaning they’re not able to secure enough food for a healthy diet at least some point during the year. 125,000 of those are children – and this particular event is geared toward the kids.

Joanna Piette goes on to add, “It’s an important and often overlooked topic. We believe Three Square is providing a much-needed service, but they need everyone’s help to reach their goals. We’re pitching in because we want to be part of the solution for our city. It’s a real passion for us; we’re honored to be in a position where we can help – and our hope is that more businesses in the Las Vegas valley will recognize that together, we can make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Actually, for the New Home Resource team, it’s not just about people – because the many needy animals in Las Vegas tug at their hearts, too. During the 6 or more events that New Home Resources actively participates in throughout the year, supporting animal rescue organizations is a big part of their calendar, too.

“Our involvement in our community comes from the sincere belief that there are things we can do to help others in need – and we know so many people who feel the same. There are a lot of very dedicated, very committed individuals in Las Vegas who take the time to make a difference outside of their work,” Piette reveals.

“As far as all of us are concerned at New Home Resource, we get as twice as much in return from these events as we give – so in one way, it’s almost a selfish thing for us to do. The truth is that giving not only directly benefits others in need; studies show that it also boosts the physical and mental health of the giver, too. Perhaps that’s why knowing that our time and efforts can make a difference in the quality of life for a child, an adult, or an animal – makes us aware that it’s all time well spent. We invite others to join the spirit of giving where it affects them personally, too. If our experience is any indication, we know they’ll be glad they did.”

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

One of the best things about buying a home? If you ask us, it’s about creating all those new holiday traditions! All the fun and festivities, the family and friends, the feasts and the falalalala’s. It’s a season we look forward to (presents & food!) – we dread (all that work, work, work to make it all perfect) – and we cherish (memories – both good and bad – whichever, they all make up our unique life stories).

We’d like to share some fun things centered on the holidays that we found and that put a smile on our faces. We hope they do for you, too!

A tree to remember. True story (<—-get it?) – because all your visitors will definitely be telling their friends about this one. Imaginatively simple and appropriately studious at the same time – this one tells the perfect tale about the host: Give me books for Christmas!

And for those who would like to take their Christmas tree in a different direction (<—ha! did it again!): An old ladder, a few boards, a little paint, and then bring on the lights and decorations!

What is better than a gift – that’s also food? (Other than a new Jaguar, we mean.) At least it’s great if you have people on your gift list that are passionate about their baking hobbies. Great tip: Offer a gift of holiday-shaped cookie cutters – but bake brownies in them for presentation. Fun, tasty, AND useful!

If presentation is everything, then we’d just like to say we need a few of these around to present our hors d’oeuvres for our holiday party. Arrange your mints on a parchment-lined pan, bake at 350-degrees for 5-8 minutes (watch them closely, though), turn out and let cool. A fantastically-easy and creative way to present your menu in style – and then hey, you can just eat ’em! (A neat twist: Use Jolly Ranchers….we hear they come out like stained-glass windows!)

Decorative balloons placed on a Frappuccino bottle + Ribbons = Are you kiddin’ me? How creative is this? An impressive and inexpensive packaging idea – great if you’re making homemade items such as bath salts or scrubs as gifts. We’ll take two, thanks!

And speaking of packaging, is this the greatest idea for wrapping children’s gifts EVER? We’re betting they’ll be so entranced, they’ll forget about the present INside. At least for awhile. (We know a few adults who would do the same thing!)

Gift Wrapping 101 continues with this clever presentation that will ensure no one at the office party is switching name tags on your Secret Santa deliveries! Note the cinnamon stick for a festive aroma, and the live greenery to enhance the effect.

We wonder how many of those paint-chip cards they have to keep in stock at Home Depot around the holidays?

Keep the kids in the spirit by assigning them the task of making these adorable GrinchKabobs for your holiday events. Or heck, just for breakfast. Green grape, banana, strawberry, mini marshmallow, and a candy heart on top. Couldn’t be simpler – or more fun (especially when they start piping the chocolate expressions on!)

Finally, if you’ve ever wondered how bakeries manage to create those adorable, individual lattice-topped holiday tarts, look no further. (It’s a little bit like exposing a magician’s secret, huh?) Eh – no matter. We figure we can use all the cheat-sheets we can get this time of year.

Whatever your holiday this season, and whatever your personal tastes – we truly believe they’ll all be better served in a home of your very own. If you’d like to make it happen for your family, let’s chat about it over the eggnog!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Everyone enjoys the holidays, and each of us does it in our own way. But with all the hustle and bustle going on during the season, it’s also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared, or too aware. So we’d like to share the following tips with you to help ensure you’ll get through the season happy – and most of all, safe.

While Out Shopping

• Try to shop during daylight hour. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

• Dress casually and comfortably – and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• In parking lots – even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – and carry the cash you do have in your front pocket.

• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.

• If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located in a well-lit location – and withdraw only the amount of cash you need.

• Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.

• Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

• Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in the event they are separated from you.

• Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.

• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.

• Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security.

• Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home. (Not on your cell phone!)

• Wallets and purses are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, and especially in tourist locations (of which Las Vegas has many!).

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. Take two trips to your vehicle if you have to – or better yet, ask the store clerk for help. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists will try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings – or even worse.

Driving Safe – Before, During & After Your Trip

• When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

• Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car, and set your alarm or use an anti-theft device if you have one.

• If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area.

• Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.

• Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

• Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.

• Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car – or leave it in the shopping cart – in order to open the door or load your packages.

• Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.

Keeping Things Safe At Home

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

• When leaving home for an extended time, ask a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

• Put both indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.

• When not at home, leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts or flowers.

• It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.

Enjoy Those Holiday Parties, But . . .

• Arrange for an official designated driver who will not drink at all.

• Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages and know your safe limit.

• Never drink and drive.

With extra attention paid to what is going on around you, you’re more than likely to NOT be the target of criminals – they tend to focus on those who are distracted or unaware of their immediate surroundings. So stay aware and stay safe this season – because there’s way too much to celebrate (and to eat)!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

We’ve written before about many of the financial reasons that owning a home makes good sense (especially right now – with interest rates so low and rents so high). And you’ve probably seen many other headlines and articles explaining the monetary benefits that you gain when you buy a home, too.

But let’s set the money aside for a bit, and talk about the psychological aspect of being a homeowner. Because while saving money each month and building long-term equity in a property is certainly important for your future, there are few of us that get that “warm and fuzzy” feeling from our financial statements.

Ahhh…..but memories, that’s another story, isn’t it? Everyone has those – whether they’re happy or sad, they’re the things we cherish, or that spur us to achieve. In essence, they’ve made us what we are today – it’s just human nature. Those memories are formed by the people in our lives, things that have happened to us, and how we shaped our environment. And those three things are precisely what we’re referring to.

Relationships

There is a great sense of belonging to a community once you own a home. You feel more attached to the city and its people, and often even get involved with neighborhood and community events. When you’re a homeowner, you’ve put down roots – and you’ve done it in the midst of many other people with the same mindset. Your neighbors become your friends, sometimes even your family (or at least they seem that close). You form relationships that can last for years – even a lifetime. And as true as that is for adults, it’s even more important for children.

In a home of their own, kids have the security of knowing that “home” means just that. It belongs to them, and they don’t have to worry about suddenly having to change schools and reestablish their friends and lives at the whim of a landlord. They’re able to develop long-term friendships – indeed, they wouldn’t even need to think about them any differently. They get to know your neighbors, who will often watch out for their welfare, too. Studies also indicate better school performance and youth behaviors in children who live in a home of their own – in addition to greater self-esteem.

Research has long proven that people who have healthy relationships with others are happier and less stressed. Owning a home is one of the best ways to give yourself and your family the gift of building those friendships.

Freedom

One of the most overlooked reasons for owning a home is the freedom you get once you’ve achieved this major life goal. Many homebuyers discover that once they buy a home, other aspects of their personal life seem to just fall into place. It’s a huge accomplishment, and because of that, it gives people more confidence in themselves and allows them to pursue other goals in life.

On top of that, there are some incredible perks that come with the term “homeowner.” Just think about it: Your space is yours to do what you please. Indulge your passions with renovations (no reason you can’t have the greatest kitchen in the neighborhood!), paint, plant, and decorate to your heart’s desire. You can choose to make your home the gathering place for your friends and family by installing a pool and landscaping a back yard to die for – or put up holiday decorations that rival the White House display.

No more white walls and beige carpet (not to mention really ugly vinyl!). And no one but yourself to grant permission to enhance your environment (except maybe an HOA). This is your space. Make it beautiful, make it useful, make it playful – it’s all up to you.

Security

Owning a home is like a touchstone, it’s a way of anchoring your life to firm ground. It creates a solid base from which you can go forth in the world to accomplish many things, whether that includes raising a family or starting a business – or following a dream.

Other proven benefits of the positive impact of ownership is that it allows access to neighborhoods with better schools, and to better physical and social conditions. Single-family homes also tend to be maintained at a higher quality, have lower crime rates, and homeowners enjoy a heightened sense of personal accomplishment and social status. All of these elements together combine to lead to greater life satisfaction, resulting in better physical and psychological health.

Given these reasons alone, it’s no wonder that owning a home has always been “The American Dream.” When you combine them with the financial security home ownership offers, too – there’s no reason that dream needs to change, if you ask us.

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Have you ever seen photos of outdoor living spaces that seemed to be calling your name? The ones that make you sigh and think “What would I give for THAT?!” Well, you’re not alone. But the good thing is there are plenty of ways to get your back yard there, whether you’re looking to meet a budget or if money is no object. That’s one of the advantages of our digital age – you can see it all and choose what you like to create your own personal oasis.

Outdoor entertaining and lounging isn’t exactly a new idea, but the design, technology and mechanics of it all have given us opportunities our parents never had. Rather than a cooler and a few lawn chairs, now we’re seeing entire kitchens, waterproof electronics, flat-screen TVs, and cozy fireplaces utilized in these inviting retreats.

With the shelter of a roof overhead and less weather extremes than many other parts of the country, dressing up your back yard and patio in Las Vegas is an affordable way to expand your living space without the expense of adding a room onto your home. Being attached to the home gives it a more fluid, continuous feel, creating the perfect environment for relaxation or entertaining – from a gathering to watch a football game, to hosting a sophisticated cocktail party.

But where do you begin? One source is the internet, where Pinterest and Google will provide inspiration; and visiting model homes for ideas and to see the space live and in person are excellent options, as well. These visuals will help you in selecting your own design and colors, and determine which elements are a must for your environment. Then, consider the following suggestions to help you create space that reflects your personal sense of style.

1. Deciding how to use your outdoor space

Your first decision is to determine if this is a space for quiet, intimate conversation – or a gathering spot for family-friendly BBQs? Do you see Game Days being spent out with your feet up and a cold one in your hand (enter: electronics) – or would a table-based fire and gourmet appliances give you the opportunity to entertain at the next level? The fact is, your options have no limit (your budget might, but not your options!). Once you know what you plan to use your outdoor living space for, you’ll know how to lay out your features -and where to shop first.

2. Consider the mood with lighting options

Lighting is going to set your tone, so you want to give some serious thought to this. Today, options for outdoor lighting are virtually limitless – from chandeliers to torchiers, they range in style from traditional and formal to sleek and modern. You can string globe lights around the perimeter for a festive air, or opt for artificial flameless candles. Adding a fireplace or a fire pit can not only add atmosphere but also be a source of sensual lighting and add drama to your environment.

3. Have a seat.

Look for furniture that invites you to virtually sink into it. The more welcoming and comfortable, the better. Lounges, wide chairs, and love seats that have thick cushions (in fabrics that are weather and fade-resistant) will make your guests want to kick off their shoes, relax, and stay awhile. Swings – whether on stands or ceiling mounted – are most definitely fun and attractive seating in any outdoor space (and you might even want to entertain the idea of a hammock.) Whatever you choose, ensure that you have plenty of seating available, as well as places for guests to place drinks and plates of food.

4. Remember that details are key.

One of the best ways things to define an actual living room from other outdoor areas is something most people don’t even think about: a rug. Why? Because it creates a physical anchor point and sets the tone for the entire aesthetic of the room with warmth and intimacy. Its color and design also has the power to accent the rest of the décor. Drapes and shades are another often overlooked element – not only can they cut the harsh glare of the sun, they can add softness and color, providing a sense of privacy – and when pulled aside, they give access to breathtaking views to remind us of what we love about being outdoors. Planters and lovely green plants continue the theme of blending indoor and outdoor spaces, too.

The bottom line is: Be daring! An outdoor living room can be your creative sandbox – a place to express your true self. Less expensive to build and furnish, it’s easy to see why they are so popular. If a little thought is put into it, the rewards can be gratifying. (You might even find yourself spending more time outdoors than in!) And time spent outdoors surrounded by nature is proven to refresh and invigorate us , both physically and emotionally. What better payoff can you possibly imagine?

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

It used to be called the “Till Decorating Do Us Part” syndrome. Couples building a home together can have such differences in how to get to the finish line, that sometimes it causes a real rift in a relationship. But with a little inside information, and an open mind as to why the extra garage is so important to him – and understanding her thoughts about timesaving design – couples can work together to create an environment that makes everyone happy.

There’s no doubt men and women view their homes differently, often in more ways than one. For the most part, however, it’s a ‘big picture’ concept that needs reconciling, and here’s why.

More often than not, the woman is the engine that keeps things in the home organized and efficient. She’s the driving force that gets the kids up and off to school, runs errands before and after work, and plans ahead to make sure the soccer schedules are met and there’s always something available for dinner. They know that thoughtful designs make it easier to keep it all running smoothly with minimal effort. That equates to floorplans that flow easily, sufficient storage space, and convenience features in the kitchen and laundry rooms. A functional, easy-to-maintain environment – that’s not too much to ask for, right? Other ‘big picture’ items for women includes visual appeal that’s easy to maintain; the quality of schools, community amenities, and the surrounding neighborhood.

To be fair, it’s not that men don’t want those things, too. (Strictly looking at generalities as they pertain to gender preferences here.) It’s more often that their minds are focused on other things. His thought that “Man, that 3rd car garage is where I can put the work bench I’ve always wanted” can easily conflict with hers that is “Great! Now we can park both cars in the garage and still have the storage space we need!” Men also place importance on a great space for the TV, where they can watch the game in comfort with friends and family. Even having space for a pub or pool room could be something they’ve always wanted. After all, we’re all social animals – and there’s a reason that the term “man cave” has even come into existence.

Men also tend to focus more on ‘cost’ rather than ‘value’ – as any woman who has put together her ‘dream upgrade list’ has surely come face-to-face with. <insert grin here!> For her, convenience equals value – so if a feature will make life easier, it’s worth it. On second thought, some things may never change.

But in building a new home – as in building and maintaining a relationship – seeing things from the other person’s viewpoint never hurts, and often helps. So take the time to find out what’s important to each other, then try shopping for your new home from that other viewpoint. You may be surprised at what you discover along the way!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Before you start fixing all of the expensive problems in your home that made you want to sell it in the first place, think about what needs to be done. Don’t try to upgrade or get the most expensive replacements. Just because you spent money to make your home look nice, does not mean the buyer will consider that in the price of the home. To make your home more valuable there are a few tips and tricks that you may want to consider.

The kitchen is known as the “heart of the house” and to most buyers, if the kitchen is small, cramped or outdated it is a no brainer on the home. Appeal to the emotions of a buyer. You want them to feel like they have to have that kitchen. Match your appliances, decorate with warmth, clear the counters for more space and do a little research to “open up a room” or refer back to New Home Resource’s Design Ideas for Small Spaces blog article.

Homebuyers appreciate beautiful landscaping and curb appeal but they will also appreciate an easily managed exterior. If cleaning up the outside of their house is quick, easy and minimal, buyers will be more inclined to stick with your house. In Las Vegas especially, if you have rock in your yards and minimal grass and plants to water, your home is more appealing than home sites with grass needing to be maintained. Outdoor living has become very popular among buyers so try to also embrace any patio areas and outside entertaining options. Spruce up the exterior with furniture, decorations, etc.

Flooring can be a big deal to buyers. It is not suggested that you boast about your wall-to-wall carpet. Carpet is expensive and hard to keep clean (especially with children). If you do have carpet that is not appealing to the eye, think about adding a rug or ripping up the carpet and doing a little DIY project. Here are a few ways to make your floors more appealing.

It’s hard to think about spending money and time on fixing a house you are trying to sell, but it will be worth it. The value of your home can significantly change when minor fixes and decoration changes are a big factor in your buyer’s eyes. There is no way to tell which efforts will attract the most buyers, but some research or advice form your qualified real estate agent could really get you going in the right direction!

If you are looking for a new home or wanting to sell your current home, please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Being a Las Vegas Local can get a little old after a while. While people travel to our city for vacation, we tend to travel away from it. With work, school, responsibilities, etc., it is hard to travel very far but we are lucky enough to be surrounded by amazing places. Below is a list of short trips to take in a day or even spend a weekend without “breaking the bank”.

Lake Havasu
Just 2.5 hours south of Las Vegas, straddling the Arizona-California border is the large reservoir of Lake Havasu. With fishing tournaments and festivals, travelers get more out of their experience here than just the fantastic water activities.

Laughlin
Spend the weekend jet skiing on the river or enjoying a concert on the Laughlin Strip! There are plenty of special events and nightlife to keep people coming back. Canoe, fish and river tours are just a few of the water attractions offered in Laughlin, NV.

Mt Charleston
Travel to the mountains for cooler weather! Mt. Charleston is about 20 degrees cooler than Las Vegas and can be a nice change. There are many recreational areas and hiking trails. Here is a list of tips to remember if you decide to take this climb!

Zion National Park
Just 2.5 hours from Las Vegas in Springdale, Utah, is the beautiful scenery and hikes of Zion National Park. The park is known for its variety of color with red, white and pink rock formations with gorgeous greenery out of the norm for most.

Grand Canyon
The famous Grand Canyon is only a 5-hour drive from Las Vegas. There are also many helicopter tours available giving you sights you would not be able to witness visiting by car! Take a guided tour, hike some trails or make a campground reservation and stay over a weekend. 

Valley of Fire
This is the oldest and largest state park in Nevada and only about an hour northeast of Las Vegas. This park open year round is known for its camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.

Willow Beach
Camp, fish, ski and more! There isn’t much you can’t do at Willow Beach near Boulder City, Nevada. Located on Lake Mohave, spend your day enjoying the multicolored rocks and sandy beaches. Later take a hike, raft down the river or take a break to do some fishing!

Hoover Dam
Attracting more than a million visitors a year and located just outside of Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is one of the Top 10 Construction Achievements of the 20^th century. Tour the power plant or take a tour of the observation deck with panoramic views of the entire dam. There is also an option for a Dam Tour. Read more here for details!

Where will you travel to next?

If you are looking for a new home or wanting to sell your current home, please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

When the sun rises earlier, the weather starts to get warmer and the birds start chirping, you know that spring has begun! The first day of spring has passed and it is officially time to start acting like it! We haven’t had much of a winter here in Las Vegas, but that’s no reason to stop from celebrating the new season!

Even with its setbacks of allergies and high winds, the overall positivity from spring puts the majority of people at ease and in a great mood! The season of spring starts around March 21^st every year and lasts until approximately June 20^th.

Here are some fun Spring Facts:

• Spring symbols rebirth
• Spring colors are light green, light blue, yellow, pink, coral, orange and lavender
• Spring holidays include: Easter, Passover, April Fools Day, Earth Day, Arbor Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Cinco de Mayo!

You’ve probably noticed the home and retail store sales this past weekend and in weekends coming up, time to think about redecorating! To be completely prepared, and to have a little fun, we have created another board on Pinterest for spring decorating ideas!

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