Blog Post • September 5, 2024

Congrats to Our Top Agents for August 2024!

by Tristin Prince

Congrats to Our Top Agents for August 2024! Your hard work and dedication have truly shined this month.

Congrats to:

Robbie Barber Ingle, Broker, LPS

Kaysha Sims, Coldwell Banker Realtor SWLA Real Estate

Ashton Felice, Realtor Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty

Britta Fancher, Realtor®

Dru Ellender, Realtor®

Quinnetta Senegal, Realtor®

Lauren Dunn, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty

Weston Webb, REALTOR®

Nathan Rose, REALTOR®

Cody Cross Real Estate

Danielle Wyble-Realtor®

Morgan Denman, Realtor ®

We’re proud of your achievements and grateful for your commitment to excellence. Keep up the fantastic work!

Blog Post • August 19, 2024

How Long Does It Take to Close on a Home?

by Tristin Prince

The time it takes to close on a home can vary depending on several factors, including the specific circumstances of the home purchase and the parties involved. On average, it typically takes around 30 to 45 days to close on a home after the purchase agreement is signed. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual timeline can be shorter or longer depending on various factors, such as:

Mortgage Financing: If you’re obtaining a mortgage to purchase the home, the timeline can be influenced by factors such as the lender’s efficiency, the complexity of the loan application, and any potential delays in obtaining the necessary documentation or appraisal.
Home Inspection and Appraisal: The time it takes to schedule and complete a home inspection and appraisal can impact the closing timeline. If any issues or discrepancies are found during these processes, it may require additional negotiations or repairs, which can extend the closing timeframe.
Title Search and Insurance: A title search is typically conducted to ensure there are no outstanding liens or claims on the property. This process can take a few weeks, and obtaining title insurance may also be necessary, which can add additional time.
Contingencies and Negotiations: The presence of contingencies in the purchase agreement, such as a home sale contingency or repairs requested by the buyer, can affect the closing timeline. If negotiations or resolutions are required, it may lengthen the closing process.
Local Factors and Seasonal Variations: The time required to close on a home can vary depending on local customs, regulations, and the workload of the professionals involved, such as real estate agents, lenders, and attorneys. Additionally, certain seasons or times of the year, such as holidays or peak buying seasons, can result in increased demand and potentially longer closing times.

It’s essential to work closely with your real estate agent, lender, and other professionals involved in the process to get a more accurate estimate of the closing timeline for your specific situation.

To ensure a smooth and timely closing, partner with an experienced real estate agent who can guide you through every step of the process. At Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of home buying and closing with confidence. Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your home buying goals and take the first step toward owning your dream home

Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today! Connect with your next agent here https://inglesafari.com/directory

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024
Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA
www.inglesafari.com | www.commercialswla.com
Lake Charles O. (337) 478-1601
DeRidder O. (337) 463-2004

Blog Post • August 1, 2024

Congratulations to our top agents for July 2024!

by Tristin Prince

Congratulations to our top agents for July 2024!

These superstar agents have been crushing it and making dreams come true all month long!

Danielle Wyble, REALTOR®
Robbie Ingle, REALTOR®
Joshua Kaczynski, REALTOR®
Amy Britt, REALTOR®
Dana Turpin, REALTOR®
Steve Floyd, REALTOR®
Eric Blood, REALTOR®
Nathan Rose, REALTOR®
Britta Fancher, REALTOR®
Quinnetta Senegal, REALTOR®

Whether you’re buying or selling, this talented team has got you covered. Ready to start your real estate journey with the best in Southwest Louisiana?

Visit us at inglesafari.com or give us a call at (337) 478-1601. Let’s make your real estate dreams come true!

Blog Post • July 10, 2024

Late Summer Sales: How to Grab Buyers’ Attention in August

by Tristin Prince

Listing your home in the late summer might sound daunting. But selling a home in August can be a strategic move, as the market is typically active with buyers motivated to move for the new school year or to settle in before the holidays. Make your property stand out with these easy-to-implement strategies.

Leverage the Longer Summer Days

Longer days mean you have more daylight hours to show your home. Daytime showings allow sunlight to flood your rooms to better highlight architectural details, finishes and flooring. In general, natural light makes spaces appear larger, warmer and more inviting.

Keep Up the Curb Appeal

First impressions are crucial. You’ll need to be at the top of your outdoor maintenance game. That means grass is always cut, weeds are pulled and shrubs are trimmed. Other essential tasks include power washing the exterior, cleaning windows and touching up paint where needed. Work with your real estate agent to understand the best way to bump up your curb appeal within your budget.

Show Off Your Outdoor Spaces

Maybe you have a spacious deck or a thriving garden. It’s worth spending a little time staging these areas to highlight them as extensions of your living space. Be sure these spaces are clean, inviting and free of weeds or debris. Consider adding some outdoor lighting to create ambiance and emphasize features like walkways, trees or sitting areas.

Add Seasonal Touches

Turn up the summertime charm with a few easy touches both outdoors and indoors. Add late-summer blooming plants like asters and mums near your front door. Place fresh, seasonal flowers around your home to add color and fragrance. Incorporate pillows and throws in late summer colors like deep yellows and oranges. Another appreciated touch: Add a tray of lemonade and glasses to your counter or island for open houses or showings. Lastly, August can get hot and muggy! Keep your air conditioning running at a comfortable temperature so your guests have a distraction-free touring experience.

With a few extra steps, you can capture the magic of summer season and help potential buyers picture themselves relaxing on your deck with a cool drink. Remember these buyers are highly motivated, so make your property the one that shines!

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Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today at inglesafari.com

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024

Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA

www.inglesafari.com

Lake Charles O. (337) 478-1601

DeRidder O. (337) 463-2004

Blog Post Credit: JENNIFER MCGUIRE, JUN 28, 2024

https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/late-summer-sales-how-to-grab-buyers-attention-in-august/

Blog Post • June 11, 2024

Preparing Your Home for the 2024 Hurricane Season in Southwest Louisiana!

by Tristin Prince

How to Prep Your Home for the 2024 Hurricane Season in Southwest Louisiana

As the 2024 hurricane season approaches, it’s essential for residents in Southwest Louisiana to prepare their homes to ensure safety and minimize potential damage.

Here are some comprehensive steps to help you get ready:

1. Inspect and Fortify Your Roof

The roof is your first line of defense against severe weather. Check for loose or damaged shingles and make necessary repairs. Consider adding hurricane straps to reinforce the roof structure. A well-maintained roof can significantly reduce the risk of leaks and structural damage.

2. Secure Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are vulnerable points during a hurricane. Installing storm shutters is one of the best ways to protect glass from high winds and flying debris. If storm shutters are not an option, use plywood as a temporary measure. Ensure that doors, especially garage doors, are securely fastened and can withstand strong gusts.

3. Clear Your Yard

Loose items in your yard can become dangerous projectiles during a hurricane. Trim trees and shrubs, remove dead or dying branches, and secure outdoor furniture, garden tools, and decorations. Proper yard maintenance can help prevent damage to your home and neighboring properties.

4. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

Prepare an emergency kit with essential items, including:

Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
Flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
First aid supplies and necessary medications
Personal hygiene items and sanitation supplies
Important documents in a waterproof container

5. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Ensure that your homeowners’ insurance policy is up-to-date and understand what it covers. Standard policies typically do not include flood insurance, so consider purchasing a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Knowing your coverage details will help you respond effectively if your home is damaged.

6. Create a Family Emergency Plan

Develop a plan that includes evacuation routes, a communication strategy, and a designated meeting place. Make sure all family members are familiar with the plan and practice it regularly. Knowing what to do in an emergency can reduce panic and ensure everyone’s safety.

7. Backup Important Data

Protect important documents and personal data by storing them in a secure, waterproof container. Additionally, back up digital files and important information to an external hard drive or a cloud service. This precaution can save you time and stress if your home sustains damage.

8. Plan for Your Pets

Include your pets in your emergency planning. Ensure you have enough food, water, and medications for them. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels in case you need to evacuate. Prepare a pet emergency kit with items like leashes, carriers, and vaccination records.

9. Stay Informed

Keep informed about weather conditions by monitoring local news and weather reports. Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities to receive real-time updates and instructions. Being informed can help you make timely decisions and stay safe.

10. Community Preparedness

Engage with your community to promote preparedness. Share tips and resources with neighbors, and consider joining local emergency response groups. A strong, prepared community can better withstand and recover from the impacts of a hurricane.

By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and loved ones during the 2024 hurricane season. If you have any questions or need assistance with any real estate needs, don’t hesitate to contact us. Stay safe, Southwest Louisiana!

Download the free 2024 Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide: https://gohsep.la.gov/…/emergencypreparednessguide_2024…

Blog Post • May 24, 2024

2024 Spring Trends: What’s Hot in Home Decor & Lifestyle

by Tristin Prince

Refresh your Home with Spring’s Hottest Trends

Explore the latest 2024 spring trends in home decor and lifestyle with Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty. It’s the perfect time to do some Spring cleaning and refresh your home. Sprucing up your space doesn’t always mean undertaking major renovations. Here are some tips on how to incorporate the latest trends into your home.

The Basics

Change Your Home Scent:

Transition from cozy winter scents to light and fresh fragrances for spring and summer. Opt for citrus, floral, or herbal scents to invigorate your space and uplift your mood.

Change Bedding:

Swap out your heavy winter bedding for lightweight options. Bamboo or linen bedding are breathable and moisture-wicking perfect for hot summer nights.

Chrome Accents:

Introduce a touch of modernity with chrome accents. They add a sleek and polished look to any room without overwhelming the space.

Keeping it Simple

Brown is in:

Embrace the warmth of brown by adding accents like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork. These earthy tones complement minimalist decor, adding depth and character to your space.

Pops of Color:

Inject vibrancy into your neutral palette with pops of color such as vibrant yellows, greens, or blues. Create focal points and add visual interest to your minimalist interiors.

Make A Statement

Bold Complementing Colors:

Experiment with bold color combinations. Mix and match complementary hues in your decor, from accent walls to furniture upholstery, for an eye-catching look.

Pattern Play:

Introduce personality and texture into your space. Incorporate them through cushions, throws, or rugs for an eclectic yet cohesive aesthetic.

Voluminous Furniture:

Opt for curvy silhouettes and plush upholstery to add a sense of softness and comfort to your interiors. Choose pieces that invite relaxation and create a cozy atmosphere in your home.

By making these minor changes, you can effortlessly transition your space into Spring while significantly impacting your home’s overall look and feel. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and give your home the seasonal refresh it deserves!

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Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today at inglesafari.com

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024

Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA

www.inglesafari.com

Lake Charles O. (337) 478-1601

DeRidder O. (337) 463-2004

Blog Post • May 24, 2024

The Trend Report: Spring 2024

by Tristin Prince

The Trend Report: Spring 2024

REINVENTING THE RESTAURANT

Amid Changing Consumer Trends.

Not quite a full-service dining experience but a step above typical fast food, the quick-service restaurant (QSR) has filled a critical niche for consumers who seek a reasonably priced meal out or to take home.

From in-store kiosks, apps, contactless deliveries and a growing reliance on drive throughs, the look of QSR has changed, and real estate operators must accommodate them.

Yet even in this new normal, more challenges remain. Even more advanced technology will be utilized that will remake the facility, the restaurants’ relationship with their customers and its real estate needs.

Download the full report here.

A Trusted Guide in Commercial Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Commercial^® provides Commercial Real Estate Services from Property Sales and Leases, to Property Management. Learn how our expansive network of Independently Owned and Operated Affiliates and Real Estate Professionals use their in-depth knowledge of the local market and industry trends to help businesses and investors navigate the complexities of the commercial real estate landscape.

The Trend Report: Spring 2024 | By COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, May 16, 2024 | TRENDS

Blog Post • May 21, 2024

Making Your Home Stand Out: Strategies for a Successful Sale

by Tristin Prince

In today’s bustling real estate market, ensuring your home outshines the competition is crucial to cinching a quick and profitable sale. These home selling strategies, along with the guidance of a trusted real estate agent, can make all the difference in a competitive landscape.

Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions are not just lasting – they’re everything. A manicured lawn, trimmed trees and well-placed flowers help create a warm and welcoming feel that brings buyers through the door. Small touches like a freshly painted front door, new house numbers, a charming mailbox and inviting lighting can also have a big impact.

Declutter and Depersonalize

Your home tells a story, but now it’s time to let buyers envision their own narratives within its walls. Decluttering not only creates a neutral canvas – it is also key to maximizing space and allowing the home’s features to stand out. By removing all personal items, like picture frames, toys and knick-knacks, buyers can more easily imagine their lives unfolding there while making the interior appealing to a broader audience.

Illuminate the Possibilities

Light has the magical ability to transform spaces, making them appear more open, airy and welcoming. Pull back the curtains, open the blinds and let the natural light flood in. For showings later in the day, ensure that your home is well-lit with ambient, task and accent lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Refresh and Repair

A well-maintained home speaks volumes about the care it has received. Address those small repair jobs you’ve been putting off – fix leaky faucets, replace outdated hardware and give the walls a fresh coat of paint. These details contribute to the overall feeling that your home is ready to embrace new owners without burdening them with a to-do list.

Stage to Sell

Staging is the art of dressing up your home for its market debut and goes beyond simply cleaning and decluttering. Furniture, artwork and accent pieces should showcase the flow of your space without overcrowding it. Your agent can help you stage your home to highlight its strengths, downplay its weaknesses and appeal to the greatest possible pool of prospective buyers.

Highlight Unique Features

Whether it’s a cozy window seat, original hardwood floors or a remodeled kitchen, you want your home’s unique features to be front and center. Highlighting these elements in your listing information and during showings can make your home stand out while creating a memorable impression.

Lean Into Digital Marketing

In today’s digital age, your online listing is your home’s first showing. You should work with an agent who will help you arrange professional photography and virtual tours that engage potential buyers before they even step through the door.

Price it Right

Finally, all your efforts must be complemented by the right asking price. An overpriced home can linger on the market, while one priced competitively can spark interest and even bidding wars. Your real estate agent will help you set a price that’s in line with recent sales while reflecting your home’s value.

Making your property stand out in the market doesn’t have to be a daunting endeavor. With these home selling strategies, you can not only speed up the sale process but also potentially increase your property’s value in the eyes of buyers. Remember, you’re not just selling a house – you’re selling a dream and a future full of possibilities.

Blog Post • April 29, 2024

Tips for Selling Your Home This Season

by Tristin Prince

Spring Into Action: Tips for Selling Your Home This Season

As temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, now is the perfect time for a spring home sale. In fact, real estate data provider ATTOM found that properties sold in April, May and June garnered the highest returns over the last 12 years. If you want to take advantage of the season’s vibrant energy and high demand, here’s what you can do to ensure a successful sale.

Maximize Your Curb Appeal

Spring is the ideal season to show off the beauty of your home and capture buyer interest before they even step through the front door. Nothing is more inviting than a freshly mowed lawn, blooming flowers and well-manicured trees and shrubbery. Buyers will notice the details, so it also pays to have your home and driveway power washed and gutters cleaned. Even small improvements like a new mailbox, welcome mat or porchlight can make a big impact.

Do a Deep Clean

Your home should sparkle from the floorboards to the ceiling fans. Buyers pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, so you’ll want to address tiling, grout lines and appliances. Replace shelf liners and shower curtains and have the carpets and curtains cleaned as well. And don’t forget about hidden spots, like the cabinet under the sink and the area behind the refrigerator. A pristine home shows buyers that the property has been taken care of, giving them more confidence to put in a competitive offer.

Address Repairs and Upgrades

You don’t have to renovate your home to get a quick sale. Some minor upgrades can significantly enhance the property’s overall appeal. A fresh coat of paint, for example, can change the entire feel of your home. Choose neutral colors and keep the palette consistent throughout the interior. You can also replace outdated drawer pulls, knobs and faucets. If your budget allows, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances and/or countertops, as these are important features that buyers will appreciate.

Declutter and Depersonalize

A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal items and unnecessary objects to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad audience. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos and knickknacks. Keep kitchen and bathroom counters clear and consider removing a piece or two of furniture from each room to enhance its spaciousness. Bare walls can make the home seem sterile, so hang tasteful artwork that doesn’t overpower the room.

Lighten up the Interior

Spring offers abundant natural light, making your home appear expansive and inviting. Clean your windows thoroughly to allow for maximum sunlight and keep your curtains and blinds open during showings. Now is also a good time to replace lightbulbs to create a warm ambiance throughout the residence.

As you prepare for a spring home sale, your agent will guide you through other key considerations, like pricing the home competitively, arranging professional photography and engaging buyers across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Together you can make your property stand out in this season’s blooming real estate market.

Blog Credit: MICHELLE ABENDSCHAN DEC 19, 2023

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Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today at inglesafari.com

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024

Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA