8 Tips to Melt the Winter Blues

With temperatures dipping in the low teens in Michigan this week, the winter blues began rearing its dreary, cloud-covered head. I know I’m not the only person in these parts feeling it. Around the office I see agents with scarves coiled around their necks and hear boots stomping through the halls. Just about everyone I ask “How are you today?” answers with a grumbled, “Cold!”

So in the spirit of all the early Valentine’s chocolate coursing through my veins, I decided to look on the bright side (even if the sun is hiding!) and look for ways to beat the winter blues.

I did a little searching online and found that almost every winter blues list included getting outside. Who knew embracing the chilly weather was the key to warming up to winter? Surly, not this southerner! It’s a great idea though with endless possibilities.

Around Ann Arbor, it can translate into taking the family out for a skating trip at one of the new outdoor skating rinks at Allmendinger, Burns & Northside parks.

Or cross-country skiing in The Arb.

Or taking the kids sledding at Vets Park.

 

However you decide to embrace winter, be sure to have fun and always remember: Spring is only 1 month and 10 days away!

For more 7 more ways to melt away the winter blues, click here.

Warmest,

Nancy

 

2016 Could Be the Best Year to Buy a Home

According to a recent article on Realtor.com, 2016 could be the best year to buy a new home in a long time. With slowly raising interest rates and eager builders looking to sell new homes at lower price points, 2016 is shaping up to be a no-brainer for buyers.

This is especially good news for renters. According to the article, “more than 85% of U.S. markets have rents that exceed 30% of the income of renting households. Furthermore, rents are accelerating at a more rapid pace than home prices, which are moderating.”

With the transient university population here in Ann Arbor, we definitely fit into the inflated rent category. Our team works with buyers all the time who tell us their mortgage payment is less than the rent they paid in a two bedroom apartment.

What does all this mean for renters in 2016? Stop wasting your hard earned cash on renting and invest in a home that will pay off!

To read more about the 5 trends that will shape the 2016 housing market, click here.