<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <channel>
        <atom:link href="https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/tags/homes-for-sale-in-aptos/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/tags/homes-for-sale-in-aptos/</link>
        <description>Lifestyle, community, day trips, restaurants, real estate, home improvements, and more. Discover what makes Santa Cruz County such a great place to live. Presented by My Santa Cruz Real Estate.</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/keep-that-heat-inside-insulate-your-windows-for-the-winter.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/keep-that-heat-inside-insulate-your-windows-for-the-winter.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Keep That Heat Inside, Insulate Your Windows For The Winter</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Did you know that, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, 10 of air leaks out of the average house through the windows? Also, an estimate by Energy Star states that homeowners could save an annual 7-15 on their energy bills by replacing their own windows with more efficient models.


If you live in an old home, it might not be possible to replace all of the windows in your home. However, there are still many simple and cheap things that you can do that will help to insulate your windows.


Apply Rubber Weather SealingAt your local hardware store you will be able to find some inexpensive strips of rubber weather sealing that is self adhesive. You can cut a long strip down to fit your window and then peel it off and stick it to the frame in order to close gaps and keep out drafts. This is a cheap solution, but it can be very effective and it will not affect the appearance of the windows. Be very careful when you peel off the rubber strips later, as they can leave a stick residue.


Keep Some Draft Snakes Around As PetsWhat is a draft snake? It is a soft plush fabric tube that you can use on a window sill or also underneath your doors to prevent cold air from creeping into your home. They are sold online or you can make your own by filling a tube of fabric with rice or beans. They are cheap and simple, but of course they will only insulate the window sill and not the rest of the glass.


Add Insulating Window FilmAnother option for insulating your windows in the winter is to use insulating window film. This is a transparent product that sticks directly to your window and gives them an extra layer of protection. This means that your windows will not be perfectly transparent, as the film will affect the view somewhat, so you might only want to use them in some parts of the house.


These are just a few simple ways that you can insulate your windows and save money on your energy bill this winter at your Santa Cruz home.


For more helpful tips and information about buying and selling a Santa Cruz home, email me at lauren@laurenspencer.com or give me a call at 831.662.6522.For additional real estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 30 Dec 2013 18:56:02 -0800</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/when-should-you-shred-your-financial-documents.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/when-should-you-shred-your-financial-documents.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>When Should You Shred Your Financial Documents?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
How do you know what happens to your documents when you put a piece of paper in the trash? It can be difficult to know who is seeing it and what they are doing with it.


It isn't very common to burn trash anymore; therefore you can be sure that your paper garbage or recycling is likely to pass through several hands on its way to a landfill or recycling center 


Step-by-Step Your Documents Can Get Pilfered


Every step that occurs once the trash leaves your control has risk that someone will find personal information they can use to cause you harm. One way to safeguard personal information is to shred it before it goes into the trash.


Shredding devices are available at most office supply stores. Cross-cut shredders provide more security than strip-cut shredders. You may want to consider one depending on your level of concern. Shredding services or shredding events are often offered by financial institutions or community organizations.


Properly destroying sensitive personal information is a key step in helping to keep your identity secure.   You really should shred any documents containing personal information, but be cautious not to shred financial documents that you may still need.


To Shred Or Not To Shred, That Is The Question...Or Maybe It's When To Shred


The Better Business Bureau offers these guidelines on when to shred:




Deposit, ATM, credit, and debit card receipts can be shredded once the transaction   appears on your statement


Canceled checks, credit card statements, and bank statements with no long-term significance can go through the shredder after one year; if used to support tax returns, keep them for seven years


Monthly bill statements can be shredded one year after receiving, to allow for year-to-year bill comparisons (another good way to monitor your budget)


Credit card contracts and loan agreements should be saved for as long as the account is active


Pay stubs can be shredded yearly after reconciling with your W-2 or other tax forms


Documentation of investment purchases or sales should be kept for as long as you own the investment and then seven years after that; shred monthly investment account statements annually after reconciling with a year-end statement


Always shred documents with Social Security numbers, birth dates, PIN numbers or passwords, financial information, contracts or letters with signatures, pre-approved credit card applications, medical and dental bills, travel itineraries, and used airline tickets.




For more information about buying and selling a Santa Cruz home, email me at lauren@laurenspencer.com or give me a call at 831.662.6522.


For additional real estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:26:00 -0800</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-manage-those-fallen-leaves.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-manage-those-fallen-leaves.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>How To Manage Those Fallen Leaves</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The kids are back in school, the weather is getting cooler and your yard is covered in a layer of fallen leaves. Yep, it’s that time of the year again, but don’t think of fall leaves as a chore. They can be a useful resource for fertilizing your lawn or even decorating your home for autumn.


Finish The RakingIt’s tempting to just let the leaves lie in the yard. It’s good fertilizer anyway, right? Wrong. You should rake everything up as soon as the trees begin to look bare, or else risk the blanket of leaves smothering your lawn over the winter season. Gather them up in plastic bags and put them to use.


Refuse To Rake LeavesIf you can’t bring yourself to pick up a rake, you do have an alternative. Wait until the leaves are dry and crunchy and fire up the lawnmower once more before winter. Many mowers have a mulch setting that will chop the fallen leaves to bits. The smaller pieces won’t suffocate your lawn, and the crushed leaves make a good fertilizer. If you’d rather use the leaf bits in the garden or a flowerbed, use a grass clipping catcher with your mower to gather up the pieces as you mow.


Use Mulch And FertilizerFresh chopped leaves are a good homemade mulch. Put a layer on the garden and the flower bed to replenish the soil over winter. Also, be sure to put a thick layer around young trees and shrubs to keep them warm. If you really want to get the most out of your leaves, then take them to the compost pile. Mix the leaves in with the regular green yard waste, and the leaves will boost the composting process into overdrive. The fully composted material makes a potent fertilizer.


Get CraftySet some leaves aside to take indoors. The changing colors of the fall leaves are part of the beauty of autumn. Why not bring some of that beauty into the house?. Fill a vase with leaves for a seasonal centerpiece, or use a wire frame to make a wreath for the front door. You can make leaf etchings with the kids or simply use one as a bookmark.It’s sad to see so many fall leaves burned up in piles, or put out with the trash. The leaves on the lawn aren’t just a mess to be cleaned up. Inside or outdoors, autumn leaves are an easy, natural, and free material. Be sure to put them to use


For more information about buying and selling a Santa Cruz home, email me at lauren@laurenspencer.com or give me a call at 831.662.6522.


For additional real estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 29 Oct 2013 09:16:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-relax-during-the-process-of-buying-santa-cruz-real-estate.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-relax-during-the-process-of-buying-santa-cruz-real-estate.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>How to Relax During the Process of Buying Santa Cruz Real Estate</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Buying a home is an emotional process. You spend countless hours searching for the right property, qualifying for a loan and completing what seems like an endless stack of paperwork. All this takes its toll on you, and can leave you feeling stressed and anxious. Rest assured, you will survive this frustrating time.


If you start to feel that things are getting a little too hectic or you’re taking frustrations out on coworkers or family, then take a deep breath. Here are five tips to help you relax and have some fun during the process of buying Santa Cruz real estate.


1. Choose your REALTOR carefully.


Finding the right property professional can relieve a lot stress. Be sure to find one that is constantly in communication, has great references and seems to have your best interests at heart.


2. Take up a new hobby.


A hobby is a great way to keep your mind off your home buying frustrations. Choose a hobby that is related, like texture painting or floor tiling. This way you’ll be able to use your new skill after you close on your new home.


3. Spend time with your family.


Buying Santa Cruz real estate affects everyone in the family, so they are also feeling the pressures of the process. Help everyone relax. Start a new family tradition, like a board-game night or weekend miniature golf tournament.


4. Play in your old town. 


If you’re moving far away from where you now live, this is a great time to explore your town before you leave. Visit local attractions and favorite spots while you still have the time. Create a scrapbook of these hometown memories.


5. Exercise. 


Nothing helps lower your stress levels like exercise. When you feel the pressure of waiting for responses from the bank or looking for the right home, go outside for a brisk walk. The activity will also help you keep fit during a time when many people gain weight from the added stress.


Buying Santa Cruz real estate doesn’t have to be stressful. Just be sure to take a little time for yourself and your family. If you need help getting through this process, please call me today at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com.


For additional Real Estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.


Links:


Floor Tiling


Board-Game Night


A Brisk Walk


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 15 May 2013 01:01:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/low-inventory-high-demand-push-prices-up.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/low-inventory-high-demand-push-prices-up.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Low Inventory, High Demand Push Prices Up</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Click here to view the Market Trends Report
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 09 Feb 2013 01:01:00 -0800</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/what-a-santa-cruz-real-estate-agent-can-do-for-you.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/what-a-santa-cruz-real-estate-agent-can-do-for-you.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>What a Santa Cruz Real Estate Agent Can Do For You</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Selling a home is simple, right? Homeowners do it by themselves all the time. While this might seem to be the case, it takes a lot of organization, experience and time to sell a house quickly and at the right price. It might be tempting to venture out on your own, but first you should seriously consider the benefits of hiring a Santa Cruz real estate agent.


Many sellers navigating the market by themselves become frustrated when it comes time to figure out a listing price, negotiate bids, deal with legal paperwork and just find enough time to manage it all. That’s when a professional’s expertise can save you from selling stress. Below is a list of marketing measures Realtors take to have you quickly closing on your home.


• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) – You must be a realty professional to post homes for sale on this online database, which includes listings from hundreds of agencies all over the country. If you’re selling a home, you definitely want it listed here — the more eyes that see it, the more likely it is to sell.


• Appointments for Showings – Just because your home is on the market doesn’t mean you can quit your day job to meet every couple who wants to take a look. That’s where a Santa Cruz real estate agent comes in. It’s their job to meet potential buyers, show the home and make the sale. Plus, you’ll have a trusted person guiding strangers through your home full of cherished possessions.


• Advertising – With years of experience, local experts will know which advertising avenues get the best response. Whether it’s through social media, flyers, newspaper ads or particular Websites, they’ll be able to place your home where its ideal buyer will see it.


• Open Houses – While putting an ad about your open house in the local newspaper might get you a small showing, a Realtor can also reach out to their list of local real estate professionals who might have interested clients.


For more information on what benefits a Santa Cruz real estate agent can offer you when it comes time to sell your home, please call me at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com.


For additional information about the services I offer or to view my client comments, visit my homepage at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.


Links:


Realtors


Show the Home


Open House


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 26 Jan 2013 01:01:00 -0800</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-help-your-pets-adjust-to-a-new-santa-cruz-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/how-to-help-your-pets-adjust-to-a-new-santa-cruz-home.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>How to Help Your Pets Adjust to a New Santa Cruz Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Moving to a new Santa Cruz home can be a difficult transition for everyone in the family, including the furry four-legged members. Dogs and cats develop a strong bond with their environment so when they are relocated from their territory it can be stressful for them.


Keep Your Mood Calm


Pets are very tuned in to your emotions and they will sense your mood. If you are stressed out during the moving process, your cat or dog will pick up on this and it will make them anxious. Try to keep yourself calm and give your pet plenty of attention and reassurance during the process of moving.


Transporting Your Pet


A few weeks before the move, introduce your furry friend to his pet carrier so that he becomes familiar with it. It will be much less scary for him to be transported in a carrier, which already has recognizable smells and perhaps a favorite chew toy or blanket inside. When you are moving your pets to your new Santa Cruz home, it is a good idea not to feed them for about three hours before setting off, as this can help to prevent accidents while in transit.


Upon Arrival


When you get to your new residence, place your pet in one room of the house and provide her with water, food and a few familiar possessions. Keep them in a closed room while you move things in, as the process of moving boxes and furniture can be chaotic and doors can be left open. Once everything has been moved in, you can take the time to give your pet some one-on-one attention.


Dogs find routines comforting, so try to stick to the same schedule of feeding and walking in your new home. Cats will want to explore and rub their scent all over the house to claim it as their territory. A cat might attempt to return to its old home after a move, so keep it indoors for a few weeks at first.


These are just a few ways that you can make moving to your new Santa Cruz home a better experience for your beloved furry family members. If you’d like more suggestions for helping your family adjust during a move, please call me at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com for more information.


For additional real estate information, please visit my homepage at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.


 Links The Process of Moving


Transported in a Carrier


Their Territory


 


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 12 Jan 2013 01:01:00 -0800</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/stay-safe-when-selling-your-santa-cruz-real-estate.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/stay-safe-when-selling-your-santa-cruz-real-estate.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Stay Safe When Selling Your Santa Cruz Real Estate</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
When it comes time to put your home on the market, you need to be prepared for the fact that you’ll be opening up your life to a whole lot of strangers. While most are actually interested in purchasing your Santa Cruz real estate, there could be a crook masquerading as a potential buyer looking to make a quick score at your open house.


Don’t fall victim to deceptive con artists Look over the quick tips below to make sure you and your home are safe and protected:


1. Hire a licensed, reputable agent. Make sure you ask around for recommendations. Check with the state to make sure he or she is properly licensed and inquire with the better business bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed.


2. Double-check the lockbox. Reputable agents will have procedures in place to make sure your lockbox is properly installed, well secured and that only approved people can access the keys.


3. Set up a showing agreement. Only allow people to view your home when a real estate agent is present. Letting random people drop by is a good way to open yourself up to potential criminals. Instead, have them contact your Santa Cruz real estate agent to book an appointment.


4. Secure your valuables. When buyers come to look at your home, they’re going to peek in drawers and closets. Make sure your money, jewelry, guns, financial documents and anything else attractive to thieves are well secured.


5. Set your alarm. Make sure your agent knows how to turn the alarm off and, more importantly, back on. If you’ve made the investment to protect your family and your property with an alarm system, make sure it’s activated so it can do the job.


There’s no reason to be worried as long as you use common sense and follow these tips.


If you are thinking about selling and want to ensure your Santa Cruz real estate is in the right hands, please call me at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com to find out how I can help you get your home sold.


To see a list of my homes for sale, please visit www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.


Links:


Open house


Lockbox


Alarm system


 


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Aug 2012 01:01:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
    </channel>
</rss>