Written by Katrina Smith ( she’s not really a doctor, but she does play one on the internet ) Paralyzed by Stuff?  At what point do the things you own, own you?   The answer lies somewhere between “I may need it someday”, “It was a fantastic bargain”, “I paid a lot for it, so I’m keeping…

Written by Steve Martin Smith A life with Katrina is like no other. She is the extreme of ‘whatever it takes’- always has been and likely always will be. In the mid 90’s, as a stay at home mom with limited resources, she once cut our living room sofa in half while I was at work.…

I am convinced that RENTING = Shorter life expectancies and pre-mature aging Most of my blog posts thus far have been about the fabulous lifestyle and history of Sarasota, FL. These posts also typically are sent out on Wednesday afternoons. This week I have had my entire life thrown in the air, lost full nights…

Laugh if you must, I did. The truth is I have been using this DISINFECTANT, natural cleaner – for years.  Our open house shoppers often comment on how clean our listings are and how GREAT they smell.  Well, I am finally ready to dish on the secret.   It is VODKA.  Paul and Adele, if you are reading this, I am…

What do burnt scalps and miscellaneous engine parts have in common? If you can hang with me for a few paragraphs, I will explain… but 1st –  a message from our sponsor ( HINT: CLICK PLAY ) I didn’t know, what I didn’t know… By the end of my first week of Real Estate school…

Written by Steve Martin Smith WHICH COMES FIRST –  THE OFFER OR THE PRE APPROVAL? Answer: PRE APPROVAL.    You should apply as soon as you know you are interested in buying. Ideally, come ready to meet your Broker with one in hand.  Reading reviews on other people’s experiences can be very helpful in selecting a lender. Lenders are not…

Emotional Support Animal UPDATE Written by: Steve Martin Smith As a Real Estate Professional, I subscribe to Florida Legal News to stay on top of changes that could affect my customers and clients. Recently, I came across this article written by Michael J. Posner, Esq., a partner in Ward Damon Law Firm which serves all of South…

PERFECT POACHED EGGS  – KATRINA’S KITCHEN SECRET #1 After 32 years of marriage I have just discovered why my poached eggs are never consistent or pretty – like in a restaurant or a magazine.  THE SECRET is in the execution – and one simple ingredient that you have in your cupboard.   Apple Cider Vinegar!  Add a generous splash of…

Whether you are a serious shopper or just enjoy seeing how others have decorated their home, visiting an open house can provide a variety of benefits to your life. However, in order for this to work, there is one basic rule that you should almost ( yes, I said almost ) always employ. That rule…

How To Stay In Contract After A Home Inspection: by Steve Martin Smith There are plenty of resources available that discuss home inspections. I’ve included another one in this blog. HOWEVER… In the past seven days, 97 homes that were under contract went back on the market in Sarasota County.   Unfortunately, this is not unusual.…