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 Welcome to April 1- and who amongst us has not been pranked (or given one) during our lifetime? |
APRIL is a month of Spring weather in Arizona, flowers in bloom, and the IRS.
- April 15 - your income taxes are due
- April 21 - Easter Sunday
- April 19-27 Passover for our Jewish friends
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| We love serving as real estate professionals - helping our clients meet their goals and protecting them through the process. Thank you for the TRUST you have in us. It's an honor. Al and Jean |
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| Real Estate Secrets: Why (and How) Kitchens Sell Homes |
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The kitchen is the heart of the home. It's a bustling center of activity where people gather to cook, eat, socialize, and entertain.
As the central hub, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms of the home. This space will immediately attract buyers or turn them off. It's much easier to look past a small bedroom or an outdated powder room than to get over an undesirable kitchen. The kitchen must be designed to meet the needs of their lifestyle. If it's not a good match, the buyer will likely eliminate the home as an option.
To prevent this from happening, homeowners can make strategic efforts that will improve their property's culinary appeal.
Refurbish rather than replace: Cabinetry is a significant factor in a kitchen's appeal. Since replacing cabinets is an expensive endeavor, many homeowners are reluctant to take on this project.
Fortunately, other options won't break the budget. Consider repainting the cabinetry or replacing only the doors. New cabinet hardware can also create a brand-new look.
Invest in appliances: Modern, matching appliances offer immense appeal. They look sharp, offer convenient features, and typically provide high efficiency to reduce utility bills.
Make it sparkle: Cluttered countertops have never helped sell a home. Buyers want to see the kitchen, not the mess. Keep counters clear and clean and ensure the entire space shines.
Consider the market: When considering kitchen improvements, homeowners should, reach out to us with your questions. We are happy to help. KITCHENS SELL. |
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| Fire Safety in the Home |
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Fire safety is critical for everyone; and especially for the senior community. People over 65 are twice as likely to die in a home fire. The risk of injury in a fire increases with age. These tips come from the USFA (U.S. FIRE ADMINISTRATION). Thanks to Carol Gross (retired after 25 years with the Phoenix Fire Department) for sending this information.
To help your community learn about fire safety, consider sharing these tips on your social media platforms:
- Know two ways out of each room. Keep these exits clear.
- Make sure everyone is able to get outside if the smoke alarm sounds.
- Older adults may need your help escaping. Plan for this.
- Keep wheelchairs, eyeglasses, hearing aids and your cell phone next to your bed
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While we're on the subject of fire safety - check your Smoke Detectors to be sure they're operating properly and the batteries are still good.
Also, carbon monoxide detectors, which should be placed in the lower portion of the wall, can be found on Amazon or HomeDepot as plug-ins.
If you have gas in the home, you should have them. Bob Nau (Nau Inspections) informed us of the importance of having carbon monoxide detectors closer to the floor after inspecting a home where they had been installed near the ceiling adjacent to smoke alarms (which should be close to the ceiling).
Fire Sprinklers - During a recent inspection of a home with fire sprinklers, Bob Nau discovered that the owner had painted over the fire sprinklers cover plates (caps) thus rendering them inoperable.
"A cover plate is a thin piece of decorative metal connected to a frame using temperature-responsive solder. It is designed to react to a very specific temperature. As ceiling temperatures rise at or above a cover plate’s specifications, the solder melts, releasing the plate and exposing the concealed sprinkler. More specifically, most common concealed fire sprinkler cover plates are designed to release at about 135°F (57°C), freeing the sprinkler’s glass bulb to activate at 155°F (68°C). Other temperatures are available but operate similarly.
Common paint, on the other hand, is not designed to respond to a specific temperature and dries like glue; both detrimental to a cover plate’s temperature responsiveness. By painting a cover plate, you are putting a dangerous roadblock in the way of your sprinkler’s normal operation.
In addition to the life-safety implications, painting a cover plate voids the warranty on your fire sprinklers. Victaulic’s warranty, for example, states, "This warranty shall not apply to any product which has been altered in any manner outside of Victaulic’s factory." Painting a cover plate voids your fire sprinkler’s manufacturer warranty and could endanger lives.
Warning: DO NOT paint or in any other way modify your fire sprinklers or their cover plates! " [from: https://www.qrfs.com/blog/14-can-i-paint-my-fire-sprinkler-cover-plates ]
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| Spring Brings Allergies to Those Who Suffer From Them |
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Ahhh...the smell of Spring is in the air (here) and soon the Palo Verde trees will be in full bloom. To most people, it's a beautiful thing - magnificent!. To others who are bothered by pollens etc. it's time for the anti-histamines and tissues.
While spring is an exciting time to get out and enjoy the sunshine, the fun can often times be hindered by the symptoms of airborne allergies that many know all too well: sneezing, runny or clogged nose, coughing and postnasal drips, watering or itching eyes, nose, and throat. Allergy symptoms can vary widely, and can even include severe rashes, swelling, shock, and shortness of breath in those with asthma.
Pollen levels are typically higher on warm, sunny, dry and windy days, and lower on cooler, moist and wet days. Check pollen levels daily in your area by visiting www.aaaai.org to determine how best to face the great outdoors. The following are tips to prevent or treat seasonal allergies:
- Consider staying indoors with the windows closed in the morning, when outdoor pollen levels are highest.
- Remove clothes you’ve worn outside once inside. Taking a shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair is also recommended after outdoor activity.
- When working or exercising outside, wear a facemask designed to filter out pollen in the air to keep it from reaching nasal passages.
- Bathe and brush pets weekly or as often as possible.
- Use a vacuum cleaner daily and a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your bedroom.
- Rinsing your nasal passages with distilled, sterile saline solution is a quick, inexpensive and effective way to relieve nasal congestion.
When symptoms cannot be minimized or avoided, they can often be controlled by medicines. See your allergist or primary care physician to find out which medication will work best for you, including oral antihistamine, decongestant, and nasal spray. (information provided by NextCare Urgent Care)
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| Wondering How Much Your Home Is Worth? |
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How has the price of your home changed in today's market? How much are other homes in your neighborhood selling for?
If you're wondering what your value is - or are interested in another area, we can send you a CURRENT market statistics and/or listings to view directly from the Multiple Listing Service - no cost or obligation. It's a service we offer on a one-time or regular basis. We can set it up daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or annually. Just email the area and/or address you'd like information on to: Al@AlandJeanBatson.com |
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| Modern Homes Are Getting Smarter by the Second |
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Innovative technology is transforming the real estate marketplace. As they design and select homes, today's buyers are weighing options that were nonexistent for homeowners 20 years ago. Modern homes, enhanced with smart technology, have become more than rooms and walls. They are integrated systems of efficiency, entertainment, and security, designed to cater to a high-tech lifestyle.
These technological advances are adding value to homes in creative ways.
Convenience: Control centers allow owners to manage almost everything in the home remotely. They can turn up the heat, turn on the lights, or turn off the television from around the globe. With remote access, homeowners no longer have to worry about misplaced or stolen keys. They can even grant entry to others while they are away from home.
Security: Wireless technology and
video surveillance options have transformed home security. Systems can be added without drilling holes and hiding wires. Cameras and video technology allow personal, remote observation of the home inside and out. In addition to securing their home against crime, owners can check on Fido, confirm a package delivery, or enjoy peace of mind that the kids arrived safely home from school.
Efficiency: Smart technology can provide greater efficiency for utilities, which can provide significant savings over the years. Improved temperature control technology, remote access to thermostats, and better utility sensors can create a highly efficient home.
Linkage: The internet has added multiple new features to homes. Homeowners can link smart appliances, security systems, and more to connect every facet of their lives. The connectivity a home offers can boost its value to plugged-in buyers who are seeking modern networking capabilities.
These smart technologies are becoming more affordable and more accessible. It's likely that more and more buyers can expect to find high-tech options listed among standard home features.
A technology upgrade might just change your life.
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| One more word about Gary Sinise |
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Last month we wrote an article about Gary Sinise, the Actor, Director, Musician who has devoted years to raising  money and helping Veterans…as told in his new book (GRATEFUL AMERICAN). It's on the New York Times Best Seller List. He’s been such a humanitarian; especially advocating for our Vietnam Vets. On March 14, 2019 the TODAY SHOW, with Harry Smith, did a fascinating interview…here’s the link if you’re interested in his work helping Veterans: https://www.today.com/video/gary-sinise-opens-up-about-commitment-to-military-families-1457912387904
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WALK DAILY WITH A PURPOSE - but watch where you're going...BE KIND AND RESPECTFUL...SMILE AND THE WORLD SMILES BACK. BE POSITIVE! WHATEVER YOUR WORRY - THERE IS USUALLY A SOLUTION
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| The Batson Team HomeSmart |
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Jean Batson
602-228-0756 |
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Al Batson
602-680-2791 |
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Home Smart
8388 E. Hartford
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
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| www.alandjeanbatson.com |
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| Al@AlandJeanBatson.com |
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| Jean@AlandJeanBatson.com |
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| What's happening to the famed Macayo's? |
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News Titbit:
The famous Macayo restaurants that originally opened in 1946 have been sold. It started with a six-table spot in 1946, when Woody and Victoria Johnson opened their first Mexican restaurant Woody’s El Nido in Phoenix.
Over the next seven decades, the Johnson family grew the business into a legendary Arizona brand, a destination for locals, tourists and one visiting president.
Woody and Victoria's daughter, Sharisse Johnson, took over the company as CEO in 2007, making Macayo's not only an Arizona icon but also one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the state.
As of today, however, that's no longer the case.
On Wednesday, Feb. 27, the company finalized the sale of both the Macayo's brand and six Macayo's restaurants to Kind Hospitality. The Valley-based company operates restaurants at Phoenix Sky Harbor and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway airports
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| It'll be interesting to watch! |
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| Quick Quiz |
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Each month I'll give you a new question.
Just reply to this email for the answer.
Which animal has the largest brain? |
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| Roasted Potato Wedges (so good) |
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| Serves 6 |
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8 large boiling potatoes (Red or Yukon) |
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (1-1/2 oz) |
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour |
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1 stick UNSALTED butter, melted |
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| Directions |
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges.
Sprinkle cheese on wax paper - dry for 1 hour.
Transfer to a large sealable bag with flour, salt and pepper, shake to mix.
Rinse potatoes and drain in a colander; then add to flour mixture, tightly sealing bag, and shake to coat well.
Pour butter into large shallow baking pan. Lift potatoes from bag and arrange in a single layer in butter.
Roast on the middle or lower rack of the oven; turning twice until the potatoes are browned and crisp [about 1-1/4 hours].
I usually sprinkle cheese mixture that remains in bag over the potatoes. Hate to loose all that cheese.
A high school friend of mine got this recipe from Gourmet Magazine many years ago. She's served it to us and...oh my!!! So delicious!! They're the perfect roasted potato dish - it goes with everything. Thanks Carol! |
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| Ask Al & Jean: This Month's Question |
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Should I do a final walk-through?
Your contract may or may not require this step. Even if it's not a requirement, it is highly recommended that you complete this vital part of the home-buying process.
A final walk-through lets you confirm that the property is in the condition you expected, with no significant changes since your initial viewing, that everything is there that should be (and nothing that shouldn't) and that all repairs have been done.
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SO, THE ANSWER IS ABSOLUTELY...YES
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