Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Redbird Willow Farm Pumpkin Season
Rebird Willow Farm in Saks, Alabama is hosting their first annual Pumpkin Patch in our community! I am a proud sponsor of this event and the Llama Red PJ Halloween Dance Party! It’s going to be a great day for everyone to come out and enjoy the farm! They have all kinds of animals, even a kangaroo named Kevin! Food, photo ops, tours, games, mazes, vendors and more! Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate. I sure hope to see you there!
Redbird Willow Farm supports the Suicide Prevention Mission and is locally owned right here in Calhoun County AL.
Home Upgrades That Cost Less Than $100
14 Easy—and Impactful—Best of all, you can do them all on your own.
Paint Your Front Door
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/front-door-paint-red-door-1019-680e08aafffc4620842b7eab9da28fcc.jpg)
If on your early evening walks you always admire the neighbor down the block who painted their front door a striking, bold red, why not follow their lead? Painting your front door a vibrant color is a cost-effective way to boost your home’s curb appeal instantly and requires just a small amount of time, says Danielle Elderkin, the co-founder of Reloved Cabins.
Revamp Your Floors
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ms-white-floors-getty-0c85bd4307c64693bc53081e3bf4a445.jpg)
If your floors are looking worse for wear, there are a few ways you can elevate them without breaking the bank. “Maybe your floors can’t be refinished again, and you want to change it up,” says Ami McKay, creator of PURE Design. “A charcoal gray and white checkerboard pattern is popular, or try a whitewash so you can still see the character of the wood underneath. Embrace the patina and character!”
Install Lights in Closets
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/home-upgrades-cost-less-100-dollars-go-closet-light-getty-0723-ee4a7acdee00450ba2ddcafc57572d24.jpg)
Though you may not have the square footage for an oversized closet and dressing, installing lighting in a closet looks (and feels) high-end, says Jane Stoller, a productivity and organizing expert. “Many closet makers and designers also place lighting above the wardrobe that will activate once the door opens. It might seem pricey, but you can actually add motion-sensor strip lighting to your closet that is easy to install for under $100 and doesn’t require wiring,” she says.
Go Thrifting
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/StyledbyEmilyHendersoDesign_PhotobySaraLigorria-Tramp_7-62a7f59684c747278bc34f65ce6217e2.jpg)
Not only is thrifting a fun weekend activity, but it’s also a playful and creative way to upgrade your home for pennies. Enhancing your living space with new artwork is an effortless and economical way to refresh its ambiance. “Scour thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or garage sales for budget-friendly vintage pieces,” says Elderkin.
Upgrade Cabinet Hardware
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/athena-calderone-kitchen-0219-d8ab66dc6cc941b09374f7838fae308d.jpg)
Completely renovating your kitchen is a multi-month project that costs thousands of dollars. However, replacing old, outdated knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities can tremendously elevate the room’s overall aesthetics for far less. “You can choose modern or vintage styles based on your preferences and the existing decor,” says Philippa Radon, a paint design and color expert for C2 Paint. “This upgrade enhances the look and adds a personalized touch to your space.”
Ground Your Space With a Rug
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/organize-bedroom-julie-soefer-1219-168792590d5843cebfeaba38748cbcce.jpg)
A rug is one of the best ways to infuse a space with warmth, character, and style. “I’m especially partial to vintage-inspired rugs that feel like they weave in a sense of history, character, and warmth into a room,” says Heather Goerzen, the design director at Havenly. “They feel simultaneously elevated and effortlessly chic.” While rugs are usually investment pieces, many affordable (and chic) options exist. The trick is to follow sales, scour thrift stores, and check out Facebook Marketplace.
Add Trim or Molding to Walls
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/DesignbyCaitlinHiggins_PhotobySaraLigorria-Tramp_StyledbyEmilyBowser23_19-b65cb28c4261403bb79adf33a5b46ffd.jpg)
Read More …
What’s Up with new Buyer Rules?
As of August 17th, 2024, a REALTOR® who is “working with” a buyer will be required to have a written agreement with the buyer prior to touring a home.
While this is an industry change to be aware of, it benefits buyers because it clearly and transparently outlines the service an agent will provide and how they’ll be compensated. So, let’s dive into why you need one as a buyer and what you can expect from it.
A buyer representation agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the relationship between you and your buyer’s agent.
And there are benefits to having one! The written buyer agreement works to –
– Builds Trust: It promotes transparency and helps build a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with your agent.
– Provide Clarity: It provides a clear outline of the services you’ll receive, ensuring you know what to expect.
– Outline Compensation: This document will specify and disclose the amount or rate of any compensation that the buyer’s agent will receive from any source and how that amount is determined.
– Ensure Service: Inside, you’ll find out the obligations your agent has for you throughout the transaction and how they’ll prioritize your interests.
This written buyer agreement has benefits for all parties, outlines the relationship, and is now an industry standard when buying. If you have any questions about how this works or what the document looks like, please don’t hesitate to ask!
45 Fireplace Decor Ideas
These creative design tricks will light up your living room.
Layer Vintage Mirrors
Create height and dimension by leaning mirrors on the mantel. Here, blogger Sarah Vandiver pairs a floor-size mirror with a smaller version of the same design. In this sunny living room, the mirrors help reflect natural light in the space.
Turn Art Into a Focal Point
In this cozy sitting area, the eye is instantly drawn to a large painting over the fireplace. To elevate the space, Susan Yeley Homes hangs a wall-t0-wall floating shelf and fills an antique vase with faux greenery.
Settle for a Neutral Color Palette
Stick with minimalist decor and bright neutrals. A framed abstract print, potted plant and trio of bud vases add a little personality to this modern living room.
Use Mirrors to Hide the TV
Here’s a genius way to mount a TV above the fireplace without sacrificing elegance. Interior designer Dara Haung had a handyman glue mirrors onto MDF wood boards and used closet hardware to create a foldable mirror display. Just open it when you’d like to watch TV!
Introduce Eclectic Elements
If you’ve got neutral walls, infuse color and personality with accents. Here, homeowner Sara Ligorria-Tramp frames a piece of embroidered textile from her mother for over the fireplace mantel. She also uses a vintage grate that came from a family member.
Whitewash a Brick Fireplace
Whitewashing involved painting with watered-down paint, which allows the original texture and color of the bricks to shine through. Here, designer Jessica Nelson brightens the fireplace with white paint but leaves some bricks uncovered for dimension.
Weave in Vintage Artwork
Add charm to any interior by sourcing artwork and decorative items from local antique shops. Here, Susan Yeley Homes goes for a striking painting over the fireplace, which also injects colors that tie back to the nearby area rug and dining table.
Cozy Up the Space
From the wood paneling and dark bricks to moody decor, this basement living room begs you to snuggle up and stay a while. There’s also a plush rug, so you can sit on the floor in front of the working fireplace for extra warmth.
Swap Decor for the Season
Update your mantel decor for the upcoming season, whether it’s a simple fall fireplace or elegant Christmas mantel. Keep certain elements the same, like baskets, trays and vases, but swap in festive greenery and decor.
DIY a Concrete Fireplace
If you don’t love your brick fireplace, no problem. Frame out the fireplace, adding shiplap up top and cement board and drywall down below.
Witches Ride & Walk in Oxford – October 19th!
Join the City of Oxford, Alabama for their 5th annual Witches Ride & Walk on Main.
It’s a spirited stroll through historic downtown Oxford on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 6 PM.
The event will take participants along a route through Main Street, Snow Street, Choccolocco Street, and Oak Street. All attendees are required to dress as their favorite witch, warlock, or goblin and bring candy to share with spectators. Men and children are welcome to join in the fun as well. Tickets are required for all participants, priced at $20 for adults, $10 for students aged 6–18, and free for children aged 0–5. T-shirts are included with tickets for adults and students, but are not available for children aged 0–5.
Participants may walk or ride a bicycle. Motorized vehicles are not permitted.
Source: Oxford Access Newsletter 2024
Choccolocco Park’s “Battle at the Big House”
The city of Oxford, Alabama is excited to be hosting “Battle at the Big House” a series of fall softball games at our beautiful Choccolocco Park! Each event will include top collegiate teams from around the state of Alabama and Georgia competing against each other.
On Saturday, September 21, 2024, softball games include a series with Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC), University of West Georgia, and Georgia Tech. Game times 12pm, 2:30pm, & 5pm!
On Sunday, October 27, 2024, there will be a series of softball games between Northeast Alabama Community College vs. Auburn University at Montgomery and University of Alabama vs Jax State (JSU). Game times 12pm & 2:30pm!
Tickets are priced at $10 and will be available for purchase on GoFan and at the gate. Kids 12 and under get in free.
Source: Oxford Access News
Rock’n Rooster Opens in Jacksonville, AL
Located on the 3 Square in Jacksonville, Alabama, Rock’n Rooster Saloon is opening! You must be 21+ To Enter and boots are optional.
The grand opening will be held on August 29th and the entire Gamecock Nation is ready for a new spot in town!
Food / Drinks / Live Music / Sports
Balcony VIP Reservations start at 10pm Thurs-Sat
Contact: (256) 365-1239
To book your private event upstairs at our “1888”Cocktail Lounge. Contact:rocknroosterevents@gmail.com
A Night In New Orleans for The Right Place
The ERA King Team had a great time supporting The Right Place Annual Fundraiser at the Kress in Anniston, AL! We ate, gave back, danced and networked all for the RIGHT REASONS.
WE OFFER ASSISTANCE IN MANY FORMS
“MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID” TRAINING COURSE
We are proud to offer ”Mental Health First Aid” training to any individuals or organizations in our community.
Whether you are a first responder, health care provider, teacher, social worker or community volunteer, “Mental Health First Aid” training teaches valuable skills to provide assistance should you encounter a person with a mental health problem or someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis.
The training you receive will enable you to provide assistance and de-escalate a situation until help can arrive or until the crisis is resolved.
Agency director, Lori Floyd, is a certified instructor for this course which is offered, free of charge, to groups, clubs or organizations of any size.
Rapid Re-Housing Program
Rapid re-housing programs provide temporary support services to help people experiencing homelessness move quickly into permanent housing. We can assist in finding accommodation through our Rapid Re-Housing program, providing long or short-term financial assistance and support to each individual to maintain housing.
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
Through TBRA, eligible clients will receive financial assistance with the first month’s rent, deposit, or short-term assistance to prevent eviction. Clients must live in Calhoun County (exceptions: Oxford and Ohatchee)
Housing Opportunity for People With AIDS (HOPWA)
This program allows those with an HIV+ diagnosis, who are struggling with housing and qualify for assistance to receive help with rent and utilities.
ENROLL ALABAMA
Residents of Northeast Alabama searching for affordable healthcare insurance through the government Marketplace can get help understanding the different plans. Field Navigator, Julie Hope, offers this FREE ASSISTANCE through our partnership with the Enroll Alabama project of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services,
The Younger Generation is Shaking Up Home Staging
Out With the Old, In With the Bold
Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation is bringing a fresh, vibrant perspective to homeownership and interior design and shaking up the traditional norms of property styling. To capture the attention of these young investors, you’ll need to understand their preferences and adapt your staging strategies accordingly.
The Rise of Gen Z
Gen Z is starting to move from renting to owning, driven by a desire for stability and investment in property. Additionally, 59% of this generation view homeownership(link is external) as a top sign of success. Despite the significant portion of their income spent on rent, they are saving diligently for down payments and are ready to invest in properties that resonate with their tastes and lifestyles.
Key Design Trends Among Gen Z
Unlike previous generations who leaned toward neutral, minimalist aesthetics, Gen Z favors bold, vibrant(link is external) and eclectic styles. This preference is evident in the popularity of maximalist design trends on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.
These platforms have become hotbeds for showcasing colorful interiors, mixing patterns and personalized decor that stands out. Here are some key design trends among Gen Z that can guide your staging strategies.
- Maximalism: Bold colors, diverse patterns and a mix of vintage and modern pieces characterize this trend. Gen Z appreciates the playfulness(link is external), visual excitement, rich textures and personal expression maximalism allows.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials and upcycled furniture are highly valued(link is external). This generation is conscious of their environmental impact and prefers decor that reflects their values. What’s more, nearly two in three Gen Z consumers(link is external) are willing to pay more for sustainable products.
- Technology integration: Smart home features and tech-savvy decor are essential. Gen Z clients are digital natives who expect their houses to be equipped with the latest technology.
- Personalization: Unlike the uniformity of traditional staging, Gen Z is drawn to spaces that reflect individuality. Unique art pieces, quirky furniture and personalized spaces appeal to these buyers.
How Real Estate Agents Can Adapt Staging Strategies
To attract Gen Z investors, it’s time to think beyond the typical neutral palette and embrace a more dynamic and engaging approach to interior styling. Here are some actionable strategies to consider.
- Embrace bold colors and patterns: Neutral tones have long been a staple in home staging, but they might not catch the eye of Gen Z customers. Consider incorporating bold colors and patterns in your styling efforts. For example, a brightly colored accent wall, patterned rugs or statement furniture can make a house more vibrant and inviting.
Brewed On The Trail
If you haven’t checked out Coldwater Mountain Brewpub in Anniston, AL you should! Great food, atmosphere and entertainment.
Brewed on the trail – Made in Anniston, AL #inourbackyard
With a focus on comfortable atmosphere, an extensive bar program, and excellent beer crafted in house, the goal is to maintain a restaurant that has something for everyone.
