Example #1: ADA height bed, foot light, layers of reading lights, recessed carpet, pull down closet.

Did you know that someone in the United States celebrates a 60th birthday every seven seconds?* As our country’s hair grows grayer, this population shift affects our social, economic, and political system.  [More] 

Author: Karen Robertshaw, (R)

To stage or not to stage?" That is the question! Sometimes a house needs much more than fresh paint and new flooring. Sometimes it needs so much work that “fixing it up” is impractical or unrealistic for the sellers.

If you’re selling a house with major issues, enlisting the right experts can help you make sure it shows at its best. Take the case of this Waiiki Street fixer-upper. The house had settling issues, was built in the 60’s and was still in its original 1960s condition. It had turquoise formica kitchen countertops, lime green shag carpet…you get the picture.

First, the sellers got opinions from both a structural and a soil engineer so they would be better informed about the condition of the house and the land. Once the inspections were done it was clear that, realistically, they needed to sell the house “as is”.

Their next step was to ask, “Should we bother to stage it?” The answer to that is “yes, absolutely!” Because home buyers -- even sophisticated and experienced home buyers -- have emotional reactions to what they see. Is it comfortable, attractive, appealing? Can they see themselves in it? It’s a natural, human response that is difficult to suppress. [More] 

Despite the lagging economy, owning your own home remains the longstanding symbol of the American Dream.
Buying a home is likely the largest investment most people will ever make. Taking that first step toward fulfilling the American Dream can be an exciting experience and is arguably the best way for the average Joe to accumulate wealth. Yet, high aspirations can turn tragic if mistakes are made. Here are the 8 all-time biggest real estate screw-ups to avoid. [More] 

Way back in about 1989 or so, I attended a convention. One of the speakers was a woman named  Barb Schwarz. She was a professional home stager.  Never heard of it, but by the end of the session I was a convert… a true believer.   It was a whole new way of seeing listings. I decided to implement the concepts I had learned. [More] 

Follow these simple tips to protect your home,  from Honolulu Locksmith Jack Dalton Lock and Key

1.  After moving into your new home, make sure to replace all locks and tumblers. [More]