If you’re considering buying a home, having a knowledge of basic mortgage terminology can help prepare you for meeting with a mortgage consultant. Here are insights you can use to understand basic loan types and how they affect different types of borrowers.
Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages
One of the first choices you’ll make when applying for a loan is if you want to have a fixed-rate mortgage or an adjustable-rate mortgage. A fixed-rate mortgage has an interest rate that does not change for the life of the loan, so it provides predictable monthly payments of principal and interest.
An adjustable-rate mortgage typically offers an initial introductory period with a low interest rate. Once this period is over, the interest rate adjusts periodically, based on the market index. The initial interest rate can sometimes be locked in for different periods, such as one, three, five, seven or ten years. Once the introductory period is over, the interest rate typically readjusts annually.
There are two primary types of government-backed loans: FHA loans and VHA loans.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and are typically designed to meet the needs of first-time homebuyers with low or moderate incomes. FHA loans can be approved with a down payment as little as 3.5 percent. Because the agency is taking on more risk by insuring these loans, the borrower is expected to pay mortgage insurance and the property must be owner-occupied.
VA loans are backed by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and they are guaranteed to qualified veterans and active-duty personnel and their spouses. VA loans can be approved with 100% financing, meaning VA borrowers are not required to put down a down payment. Unlike FHA loans, borrowers do not have to pay mortgage insurance on VA loans.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are two government-owned institutions that buy and sell mortgages on the aftermarket. By selling the loans to “Fannie and Freddie,” lenders can free up their capital and return to issue more mortgages than if they had to personally back every loan that they approve.
If a loan meets the standards that Fannie and Freddie have set, then it is considered to be a “conforming loan.” More than 90 percent of loans that are issued in the U.S. are conforming loans.
One main standard for conforming loans is that the loan must be under a certain amount. While loan limits can vary by county, the conforming loan limit for all counties in Central Kentucky is currently $424,000. If a buyer asks to borrow more than $424,000 in Lexington or Central Kentucky, the loan is considered a “jumbo loan.”
Jumbo loans are considered to be riskier for the lender, so the bank will typically require a higher down payment. Additionally, the interest rate on a jumbo loan may be higher than if the same borrower applied for a conforming loan.
Need help financing a new home? Understanding the loan types is step one. Step two is getting pre-qualified or pre-approved, so you know where you stand. Reach out today to get connected with a HomeServices Lending expert who can help you, no strings attached!
When selling your home, you want to get a fair offer and a fast path to closing. To do so, it’s important to remain as emotionally detached as possible. Here are five emotional mistakes every homeowner should avoid when selling a home in Lexington and Central Kentucky.
Mistake one: Not recognizing your home’s imperfections
The first step to emotionally detaching from your home is recognizing that your home isn’t perfect. Just as you’ll be showing off your home’s best features in order to draw in a higher offer, buyers and their agents may focus on the property’s flaws in order to get a better deal. Remember that this isn’t a personal attack — you are just on opposite sides of a business transaction.
Prior to listing your home, talk with your agent about the property features that could bring your value down and determine if they are worth fixing. That way, you won’t be surprised when a buyer comes back with a contingency or lower bid.
Mistake two: Not prepping for showings
To appeal to most buyers, it’s critical that your home be free of clutter, and staged to show off its best features. Additionally, your home should be spotless any time you leave the house so you can accept last-minute showings without rushing home to wash the dishes or make the bed.
If your home has been on the market awhile, it’s common to become apathetic to showings. You may start to think, “I have to live in this house and it’s just not possible for it to be sparkling clean at every minute. If a buyer doesn’t understand that, that’s their problem!” The reality is that when a home is sparkling clean, it shows the pride the seller has in the house. By showing off your home’s best assets every time you have a showing request, you’ll be showing each buyer that your home is worth its listing price.
Mistake three: Staying in the house during showings
While you may be curious about potential buyers, you should not remain in your home during showings or open houses. Buyers need to be able to freely look at each room of the home and share feedback with their family, friends or agent. By remaining in your home, you could stifle the buyer’s interest in your home.
Mistake four: Refusing early bids
If you get an offer within the first few days on the market, you may believe you have priced your home too low. While this is an understandable reaction, the reality is that buyers are much more eager to look at (and make offers on) homes that have just entered the market. It’s proven that homes receive the most interest — both in terms of showings and offers — in the first two weeks after they are listed on the MLS.
On the other hand, homes that remain on the market for extended periods of time are often less appealing to buyers, who may believe that something is wrong with them. If you get an early offer on a house, be sure not to take it the wrong way. Together with your Rector Hayden Agent, you can determine what the offer means, and if you should hold out for more competing offers or accept this fast path to the closing table.
Mistake five: Expecting more than your home is worth
Perhaps the most common emotional seller mistake is to have a price in mind before you’ve consulted with an agent. Your home’s value is not what you hope to earn at closing, it is what a buyer is willing to pay for it in today’s market. The good news is that home prices have been on the rise for more than three years in our local market, so many sellers are finding it’s an advantageous time to sell.
By working with an agent to look at comparable recent sales in your area, your home’s condition and buyer demand in your area, you can come up with a fair but competitive price.
Ready to see what your home is worth in today’s market?
We have local specialists in every neighborhood across Lexington and Central Kentucky who would love to help you determine a price and selling strategy for your home. Call, chat or email us today to get connected with a Rector Hayden Agent!
Lexington Center & RUPP Arena, 430 West Vine Street Lexington, KY 40507United States+ Google Map
Shake off the cabin fever and enjoy great outdoor products, exclusive deals, and entertainment that includes fishing, farm animals, and zip lining! Thursday 2-9 pm; Friday 2-10 pm; Saturday 9 am – 9 pm; Sunday 10 am – 5 pm.
UK – Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose Street Lexington, KY 40508United States+ Google Map
LexPhil opens the second half of the 2017/18 Season with Shostakovich’s ground-breaking Symphony No. 7 in Revolution! Dedicated to the city of Leningrad, this work has remained a symbol of resistance against totalitarianism and militarism in both the Soviet Union and the West.
Woodford Reserve Distillery, 7855 McCracken Pike Versailles, KY 40383United States+ Google Map
$80
Bring your special someone and celebrate Valentine’s Day at Woodford Reserve. Both evenings will feature distillery tours, a beautiful four-course plated meal, cash bar and live music. Guests must be 21 and over to attend. https://www.woodfordreserve.com/age?location=/events/
CastlePost, 230 Pisgah Pike Versailles, KY United States+ Google Map
Join us for an enchanted evening. Bring your special someone to a magical night out at The Kentucky Castle. Make this the best Valentine’s night of their life in the most romantic setting possible. You’ll be served an inspired 4 course meal in an enchanting setting. To book a room as well, click here (link will open in new window). Rooms are EXTREMELY limited.
Lexington Opera House, 401 West Short Street Lexington, KY 40507United States+ Google Map
This classic story of My Fair Lady is based on George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion and immortalized on Broadway and in film. The tale of Professor Higgins and his wager to transform a poor flower girl into a proper lady is a delightful romance for a Valentine’s weekend celebration.
Alltech Arena at the KY Horse Park, 4089 Iron Works Pkwy Lexington, KY 40511United States+ Google Map
Curious about the housing industry in Lexington? Attend the New Home & Remodeling Marketplace to meet local building professionals who can help introduce you to the Lexington Lifestyle! Event is in the North Exhibit Hall and Concourse of the Alltech Arena. Free parking.
Phoenix Park, 100 E Main Street Lexington, KY 40508United States+ Google Map
Help end homelessness in Lexington. Join us in this two-mile walk-a-thon through downtown Lexington in support of our Homeless Intervention Program. This program provides the first month’s rent for individuals and families who are homeless, along with housing counseling, help creating a household budget, and ongoing case management. Your fund-raising efforts will ensure we can provide housing for more homeless neighbors this year!
“LeadingRE has also established the Website Quality Certification (WQC) to recognize member company websites that achieve “best practices” in website design and Internet communications. The firms are recognized for innovation, creativity and superb examples of website excellence.”
A time to reflect and celebrate the successes and joys of 2017 – and an opportunity to motivate and invigorate ourselves for 2018 – SELL-A-BRATION!
Mike Huff, Katie Feola, and Marcos Volpini
Sell-a-bration is Rector Hayden’s annual tradition of celebrating the year in review and kicking-off our business in 2018. Second to our holiday feasting, this event epitomizes the spirit of our RHRFamily and office culture.
This year our event was held at Malone’s Prime – the Bluegrass Hospitality Group’s premier event space in Lexington, Kentucky. We were honored to get to utilize this new and gorgeous event space. Sha Fister, General Manager, opened up our luncheon with kind remarks and introducing Katie Feola to sing the national anthem. Katie Feola, member of the Feola-Williams Group, is also a professional singer in the Lexington area – known for performances at Southland Church and Rupp Arena. As always, her performance was beautiful and an honor to lead our event.
Cindy Shryock, a blessing to all who know here, and an agent from our Versailles Office, blessed the meal. Her prayer was moving and sweet and truly set the tone for the afternoon of gratitude and devotion.
It’s always a fantastic experience to sit down and break bread with our agents, and thankfully over 130 members of the Rector Hayden family were able to attend this year.
This year, the Rector Hayden Staff and Keith Rector held the first ever SAGY awards ( yes, saggy… ) the Staff Awards for a Great Year! These humorous superlative awards were voted on by staff members to showcase some of the often unrecognized talents of our agents in our family.
Scroll through the following slideshow to see the winners!
NEW AGENTS
It’s always a delight to welcome and acknowledge agents that joined the RHRFamily in the previous year. For 2017, we had 34 new agents join and grow with Rector Hayden.
There’s no other place I would’ve wished to spend my first year as a Realtor. The people make this company great; the core staff, supervisors, and Realtors have all been exceptionally supportive. I am so thankful for each of these individuals that continue to inspire, encourage, and guide me in this new path of helping people achieve their dreams.– Abigail Stone
NEW DESIGNATIONS
One thing that truly defines Rector Hayden’s agents is the continual pursuit of knowledge in this industry. Many of our agents dedicated time and invested in themselves to strengthen and build their business.
The Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is for real estate professionals who want to sharpen their negotiation skills. The RENE certification program gives REALTORS® the tips and tools they need to be skillful advocates for their clients.
Trudy Brooks, The Brooks Team, received Accredited Buyer Resource (ABR) designation from the National Association of REALTORS®
The Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria.
The Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria.
The Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certification is specifically designed to enhance your skills in pricing properties, creating CMAs, working with appraisers, and guiding clients through the anxieties and misperceptions they often have about home values.
The Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is for real estate professionals who want to sharpen their negotiation skills. The RENE certification program gives REALTORS® the tips and tools they need to be skillful advocates for their clients.
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers.
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Over 90 agents participated in the nationally-known certified Ninja Selling program this January, and we want to recognize their achievements as well. Read the full release of all of our Ninja Certified Agents here… [READ MORE]
25+ Years of Service
Each year we honor the members of our RHRFamily that have been with us for 25 years or more in service. What amazing dedication to this company!
The following Rector Hayden agents proudly served their fellow agents and communities by serving on the Lexington-Bluegrass Association of Realtors® Board in 2017 or associated Committees.
Traci Felix, MLS Committee
Amanda Ferguson, Community Education Task Force
Sha Fister, Board of Directors
Kristin Halfhill-Larimore, Young Professionals (YRB)
David Hill, Government Affairs and RPAC
Mike Huff, Technology Committee
David Humes, Farm Task Force
Lura Justice, Board of Directors and MLS Committee
Lynn d’ Lindsey, Grievance Committee
Andrew Salsman, Government Affairs and RPAC
Tom Thomas, Grievance Committee
Lucy Waterbury, MLS Committee and Technology Committee
Donna Williams, Grievance Committee
OUTREACH in 2017
Our program continued by recognizing the amazing charities and community projects Rector Hayden was involved with in 2017. You can read more about these different events by clicking the links below.
The Platinum Producer designation is awarded to the top 10 producing parties affiliated with Rector Hayden REALTORS® for the calendar 2017 year. These agents went above and beyond in production and transactions. We’re honored that these high-producing agents are part of our family.
Platinum Producer #10: Laura Hayden
Laura Hayden, REALTOR®
Laura Hayden, daughter of co-founder Pat Hayden, has been a full-time REALTOR® since 1999. Laura has consistently been a top-producing agent with our company. But, more importantly, Laura serves her community with a heart full of passion and devotion. Laura has served in many charities and volunteer capacities, including: The Realtors Community Housing Foundation, Ashland Terrace, Lexington Children’s Theatre and Junior League of Lexington.
Motivated by today’s changing market, I rely on my background in architecture, real estate investing, continual education, consulting and proven track record as a top producer to ensure your dreams are a reality when buying or selling your first or last real estate purchase, regardless of residential, commercial or investing. I want to be sure your experience is more than you ever anticipated in order to establish not just a business relationship, but a friendship.
A testimonial from a recent client of Cindy’s:
This whole experience of finding and buying a house with Cindy’s help was FANTASTIC!!! Her knowledge of the area, her promptness with getting back to me when i had a question or concern, her willingness to meet me to look at houses when i could, everything about her is truely AWESOME!!! If and when i ever look for another house i will certainly be contacting Cindy for her help in finding one! Plus referring her to friends and family. When your ready to find that perfect realtor for finding that perfect house, think Cindy Shryock! – Paul of Versailles, KY
Platinum Producer #7: The Digs Group led by Jody Moore
Jody Moore of The Digs Group, REALTOR®
“I LOVE BEING HERE.” – Jody Moore
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[row_column]The Digs Group: Jody Moore, Morgan Campbell, and Kevin Mueller[/row_column]
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[row_column]Jody Moore cell: (859) 474-1137[/row_column]
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[row_column]e-mail: email@jodyleemoore.com[/row_column]
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[row_column]website: http://thedigsgroup.rhr.com/[/row_column]
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Platinum Producer #6: Halfhill Auction Group
The Halfhill Auction Group: licensed REALTORS® and Auctioneers
Jim Halfhill Jr., Kristin Halfhill-Larimore, Jim Halfhill Sr.
Founded in 1991, the Halfhill Auction Group, associated with the #1 real estate company, Rector-Hayden Realtors, is Central Kentucky’s leading real estate auction firm. Our team specializes in residential, commercial, farm, estate, and bankruptcy auctions throughout central and eastern Kentucky. Founded by Principal Auctioneer Jim Halfhill, Sr, the Halfhill Auction Group team includes his son Jim Halfhill, Jr (Principal Auctioneer), his daughter, Kristin Halfhill-Larimore (Principal Auctioneer) and his wife, Elizabeth, as office and operations manager. The Halfhill Auction Group has successfully conducted over 1,000 real estate auctions totaling over 250 million dollars in sales. When in need of professional auction services, let the Halfhill Auction Group bring their years of experience and the excitement of their live auction team to your next auction.
A testimonial from a client of Jeri’s:
“There aren’t enough words to say how much Jeri Hartley did for us regarding the sale of our home. She worked very hard to accommodate our needs when showing the house and still managed to get us under contract in 9 days! That speaks volumes to the level of professionalism Jeri has. I would recommend Jeri very highly to anyone looking for a real estate professional. She knows the local market and works hard to make sure your home is shown often so it can be sold quickly. Our whole experience was a positive experience!!!!!” – Wayne and Tracie of Versailles, KY
The Riddell Smith Group: Ryan Smith, Broker Associate; Mary Galus, REALTOR®; and Joe Riddell, Broker Associate
“Rector Hayden helped me in many ways in 2017. The office staff were very helpful in creating brochures, ordering advertising, and much, much more. The management staff answered important questions and gave wise advice. The Halfhill Auction Group and office staff helped our team with an important auction. Having a beautiful office space and our own office makes coming to work a joy. Thank you Rector Hayden for helping make my business a success in 2017!” – Ryan Smith
I feel incredibly fortunate to work with all of the amazingly good people of RHR! I have had some great role models in 2017. Many who have gotten me through a successful first year by demonstrating best practices, offering training, advice, guidance and demonstrating great character. – Mary Galus, The Riddell Smith Group
Platinum Producer #3: The Justice Group
The Justice Group: Richard Justice, REALTOR®; Lura Justice, Broker Associate; Lisa Dickens, REALTOR®
“I’m so proud to call Rector Hayden “home.” Year after year, this company goes above and beyond in providing the very best support staff, managers and education to its agents. Hands down, THE BEST! in all aspects!” – Lisa Dickens
[From Left to Right] Sha Fister, GM; Donna Williams, Manager; Monty Fraley, REALTOR; Paul Campbell, REALTOR; Andrea Clemons, REALTOR; Susan Hammett, REALTOR; Brad DeVries, CEO & BrokerThe Jubilee Team is comprised of Paul Campbell, Andrea Clemons, Monty Fraley, and Susan Hammett.
Buying & selling a home can be a lot of fun, but also challenging in today’s world. We are purposeful about offering a joyful & patient attitude to all parties involved in our transactions. We choose to persevere for our clients, guiding you through any difficult waters that rise and doing everything we can to ensure you meet or exceed your real estate goals.
The staff at Rector Hayden, particularly Keith Rector and June Laves, assisted me in securing The Castle Listing. Their willingness to contribute and assist The Jubilee Team, was Outstanding, and much appreciated. Great Team Work! In addition, every time I come into the offices of Rector Hayden, to behold the smiling faces of Tracy Prewitt and June Richey is heart-warming. The patience I receive from Sheila Bellomy, Kim Combs and Betty Gardner is so very much appreciated since I am technologically challenged. I love Rector Hayden ! – Susan Hammett
We concluded our luncheon by announcing three major announcements for marketing opportunities for agents, as well as a revised schedule for continuing education for agents throughout the year! Our CEO, Brad DeVries, closed us out and we left with motivation and full bellies.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 3, 2018) – Bo Smith is the 2018 president of the Realtor-Community Housing Foundation (RCHF). Smith is associated with Keller Williams Greater Lexington.
The 2018 officers are president elect, Rusty Underwood – Milestone Realty Consultants; vice president, Tim Adams – Guardian Savings Bank; secretary/treasurer, Melinda Earlywine – Century 21 Commonwealth Real Estate; immediate past-president, Deni Hamilton – Coldwell Banker McMahan.
The 2018 RCHF board of directors include: Pat Borg – Weesner Properties, Inc. Cheryl Bromagen – Chase; Gesela Brown – First Security Bank; Greg Buchanan – ERA Select Real Estate; Amanda Marcum – Berkshire Hathaway H S Foster Realtors; Ed Moore – Community Volunteer; Becky Murphy – Charlie Murphy Real Estate; Maggie Napier – Napier Realtors; Will Puckett – PNC Mortgage;Jeff Rietze – Rector Hayden Realtors; and Joan Whitman – Whitman, REALTORS.
RCHF is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization incorporated in 1992 established by the Lexington-Bluegrass Association of Realtors® (LBAR). RCHF’s goals are to empower families and strengthen neighborhoods by assisting homeowners in need to be able to stay in their homes and help make homes more accessible with the installation of ramps and/or other adaptations for low-income persons with disabilities and/or mobility impairments.
Lexington and Central Kentucky housing market predictions for 2018!
After a record-setting year in the local housing market, what can we expect in 2017? We’ve checked our crystal ball for indications of what the future holds for Central Kentucky home buyers and sellers!
Here are some key points regarding what we see affecting our local housing market in the year ahead:
Moderately rising mortgage rates. Interest rates rose slightly in 2017, but continue to remain at historic low levels. Buyers tend to step up their buying decisions when faced with the possibility of higher rates down the road — so our normal, busy spring market might even start a little earlier than usual this year.
Millennials becoming home buyers. Historically, most people will consider their first home purchase as they hit their mid-twenties to early-thirties – and just like across the nation, these “Millennials” are vast in numbers in Lexington and Central Kentucky. Although student debt may be a financial drag for some in this age group, there are many who will be looking forward to buying their first home this year.
Continued strong buyer demand. As we kick off the new year, we have a lot of potential home buyers looking at the current inventory — and we foresee that strong demand continuing at least through the middle of the year. We’ve always been blessed with a relatively strong local economy here in Lexington and Central Kentucky – regardless of what happens on the national scene. That’s why we feel confident in making our bold prediction for 2018:
Home buyers and sellers in Lexington and Central Kentucky will continue to move up, move down, move in and move out!
Be sure to check out our exclusive Market Report — with all the latest information on the local real estate market – compiled by the experts at Rector Hayden Realtors!
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), nearly 70 percent of homeowners over the age of 65 have paid off their mortgage, allowing them more options than younger homeowners. With equity built up, the ability to sell for a profit is more likely for this demographic, who can then choose to spend their earnings however they choose.
Here are five reasons you should consider downsizing your home this year.
Buy a smaller home with cash
Some homeowners will find that by downsizing, they can earn enough to buy a less expensive home in cash, and end up mortgage-free in a new abode. NAR says this is a very common route for those nearing retirement. Last year, homeowners between ages 55 and 74 who sold their home for a median price of $250,000 went on to purchase a home that was worth a median price of around $215,000.
Less time and money spent on upkeep
Larger family homes can take up tens of hours a week to keep up and cost more to cool in the summer and heat in the winter. Those who raised families may find that the three-story home they needed in the past is impractical now. NAR’s data supports this, showing that the median size home purchased by those over the age of 55 was between 1,800 and 1,930 square feet. This is a major downsizing from the age group of 35-44 years old, whose median home purchase size was 2,600 square feet.
Embrace the now
Many homeowners will find that their four bedroom split level was great for raising a big family, but now they tend to use their home for weekend visitors and casual get-togethers. The right home for this new lifestyle may be an open floor plan that includes guest quarters and attached bathrooms instead of many smaller bedrooms and bathrooms. Last year, NAR found that homeowners over the age of 55 had a median of three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Great rooms also tend to replace living rooms and dining rooms — and larger, eat-in kitchens are common to save space and keep the floor plan open.
Look forward
Last year, NAR reported that 13 percent of buyers over the age of 50 purchased senior-friendly homes or units in active senior communities. In many cases, then, this age group is not only planning for the “now,” they are also planning for the future. One-level homes with open floor plans, larger rooms and wider hallways prove to be great not only for entertaining guests, but they also will be wheelchair and senior accessible in the future.
Gain flexibility
Last, and perhaps most importantly, it’s finally your time to choose. By selling your home, you can regain the flexibility you gave up as you pursued your career and family aspirations. Many approaching retirement in Lexington and Central Kentucky are looking at a downtown condo and a summer rental out of state. Others are looking at townhomes with modern conveniences and a homeowner’s association that handles basic yard and sidewalk maintenance. Still others are wondering if it’s time to retire full-time to the lake home that has been a precious summer escape. Now, unlike any time previously, you can make the choice that best suits you, and no one else!
Here are some thoughtful and easy gift ideas for you to consider if you know young or first-time homebuyers purchasing in Lexington or Central Kentucky (or…maybe you ARE one and could benefit from some gift ideas to share with generous friends and relatives!).
Moving day pizza or local restaurant gift cards
Whether you’ll be helping on moving day or not, consider sending a pizza delivery to the new abode on the night the buyers will be moving in. While a surprise would be fun, it’s best to let them know in advance so they can plan for it. If you’re delivering pizza or dinner in person, bring a set of paper plates and napkins (and maybe a chilled bottle of champagne) so they create a memory they’ll never forget.
An alternative to this plan is to give a gift card to a new local restaurant they can try out in their first few days or weeks in their new area. Check out reviews in advance so you know you’re sending them somewhere great!
Hardware store gift cards
Even the most perfect new house will have a few idiosyncrasies, and you can ease a homebuyer’s burden by giving them a credit to a local hardware store. Big-box stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot are perfect for handy homeowners who have big projects they want to complete.
For those who may need a bit more guidance and who will be tackling smaller projects, a local hardware store gift card works well. If they need a photo-hanging kit, the section at their local Ace Hardware may be less intimidating than the full aisle of options at a larger hardware store.
Address label changes
Buyers often overlook the need for new address labels or an address stamp so this is a great idea they won’t be expecting. Online sites like Zazzle and Shutterfly have dozens of affordable designs available.
Plants
Most homeowners have plenty of picture frames from their previous residence, but they may not have indoor plants to jazz up the décor. Consider the size of their new home and their style as you select planters and plants.
Sheets, linens and towels
Linens of all kinds — bed sheets, pillow cases, comforters or quilts — will always be appreciated for new bedrooms. Extra towels, whether for the bathroom or kitchen, are also a great gift. Consider giving a gift receipt so they can exchange for the colors or types they prefer.
Homeowner essentials
When you’ve lived in an 800-square-foot apartment, extension cords may seem like a laughable item. Homeowners, on the other hand, will know that items like extension cords, power strips, extra light bulbs, cleaning solutions and even duct tape are must-have homeowner essentials. Deliver a small package of these items within one week of their move.
THANKS TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED IN
OPERATION MILITARY CHEER!
Thank you to all of our wonderful agents that participated in this year’s Operation Military Cheer alongside BIACares. Check out this video from WKYT at yesterday’s loading with the National Guard. What a blessing and privilege for Rector Hayden to be a part of this endeavor!!
REMEMBER! BIACares / Don Sullivan will be collecting CASH/CHECK donations ALL THE WAY UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!!! New requests come in to this charity even now, and BIACares and Don will purchase additional items as needed.
You cash or check donation can be brought in to the Lexington office – put it in the black lockbox with your name and Don’s name on the envelope. Check should be made out to BIACares. (BIACares is a non-profit 501c3 affiliated with the BIA of Central KY formerly known as the HomeBuilders Association)
Don has been a member of the #RHRFamily for many years. He is a well-established REALTOR in the Central KY area as well as a dedicated servant to his community. Don has been a leading member of the Building Industry Association of Kentucky (formerly known as the HomeBuilders Association of Lexington).
A testimonial from a recent client of Cindy’s:
Founded in 1991, the Halfhill Auction Group, associated with the #1 real estate company, Rector-Hayden Realtors, is Central Kentucky’s leading real estate auction firm. Our team specializes in residential, commercial, farm, estate, and bankruptcy 
“I’m so proud to call Rector Hayden “home.” Year after year, this company goes above and beyond in providing the very best support staff, managers and education to its agents. Hands down, THE BEST! in all aspects!” – Lisa Dickens
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