Recent Articles

October 30, 2015

Happy Halloween – Trick or Treat Hours

by Melissa Stevenson

Hello and Happy Halloween! Although the weather forecast is looking crummy for our area for tomorrow, I hope those who participate in the holiday activities are able to make the most of it.  I thought I would share some of the local town’s trick or treat hours here, for your information.  This was taken from…

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October 23, 2015

How To Clean Your House Quickly Before A Showing

by Melissa Stevenson

Hello Sellers, Selling a home while you’re still living in it has many challenges and one is keeping it “show-ready”.  I came across this article that gives tips for cleaning a house quickly for a showing and thought it might be helpful for you. As always, please contact me with any questions or assistance in…

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September 22, 2015

Return on Investment for Outdoor Renovations

by Melissa Stevenson

Hello again, After posting about return on investment for interior improvements and upgrades I felt it only fair to post something about exterior projects also and I came across this infographic I thought you might find helpful! ~Melissa http://blog.rismedia.com/2015/outdoor-renovation-projects/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email

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September 21, 2015

Top 5 Best Values for Your Home Improvement Dollar

by Melissa Stevenson

Hello, I am often asked by sellers which home improvements are most cost effective and make the biggest impact to buyers when selling.  This article lists the top 5 based on cost vs. value.  If you’re thinking of selling and making improvements before you do, you might find this helpful.  If you have any questions…

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September 18, 2015

Living In Your Home While It’s Staged

by Melissa Stevenson

Selling your home and living in your home are two different things although many people do both at the same time.  This is typically a tricky task.  I tell my seller clients this all the time and also let them know that it is difficult and honestly, not fun.  But, it can be done!  I…

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April 15, 2015

Pre-Storage Checklist

by Melissa Stevenson

Hello, I’m sure we are all guilty of storing things we don’t really need, just to get it out of our sight.  I am for sure.  Here is a handy checklist I found that may help. ~Melissa Pre-Storage Checklist: 10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Store

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March 17, 2015

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

by Melissa Stevenson

      Hello and Happy St. Patrick’s Day! For anyone who knows me, you know how much I LOVE St. Patrick’s Day!  I’m not sure where this stems from although I do have some Irish blood in me (my mom’s maiden name was Murphy); I think a lot of it is just that I…

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February 23, 2015

8 Home Renovations That Will Pay You Back

by Melissa Stevenson

This time of year many people think about making improvements to their home, possibly because they have tax return money they want to spend, the winter weather has them spending more time indoors or maybe they’re thinking of selling their house in the spring or summer.  Whatever the reason, if you are considering any renovations…

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February 17, 2015

Staging For Web Appeal

by Melissa Stevenson

You’ve heard it before, staging DOES make a difference when selling your home. In today’s world, it’s not just about staging your house to make it look better when prospective buyers come through for a showing. The first place buyers look for a house is online so you must make sure your house is staged…

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February 14, 2015

Happy Valentine’s Day!

by Melissa Stevenson

Happy Valentine’s Day! Why not buy your sweetheart something other than flowers, chocolates or jewelry this year?  How about a house instead?!  Here are some tips to avoid homebuying heartbreak today or any day. ~Melissa http://blog.rismedia.com/2015/homebuying-heartbreak-valentines-day/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email

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We found Melissa by chance when we were looking at houses on Zillow, she showed us our first house. From that day, more than a year and a half before finding the one, she was amazing. My husband and I phoned/texted her numerous times for showings, and she was always so accommodating. She was patient and helpful, and really listened to our wants/needs. I will always recommend her HIGHLY to anyone who I hear is looking to buy or sell. Melissa is a true professional. I cannot give enough positive feedback about the way she handled every part of our buy/sell process. Melissa is so down to earth, and made us feel very comfortable during all communications.

Larua and Jim Tessem Peoria, IL January 28, 2020

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How to Quickly Prepare For a Listing Photo Shoot   By Lindsay Goebel Last Updated March 15, 2024 2 min read Professional photography is the #1 factor that will determine how much money your property will sell for. While the quality of the photography is important, it’s just as important to make sure your house is clean and organized to…

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