Last minute shopping tips!

For those of you who don't know me well, I always seek enduring quality, but at a value price. Not that there's a thing wrong with the "big box" stores like Walmart or Big Lots or Home Depot or Costco, but there are high quality deals to be found if you are creative. All that said, this Friday is Christmas Day. Unless you have the heart of Scrooge or the Grinch, you probably have a desire to give to others.

Aldi - You have seen me blog about Aldi. Started in Germany, they have been called "the world's best grocery chain" - they are famous for high quality, no coupons, and if you are unsatisfied with any food item, they will replace it *and* give you your money back. Don't pass up their bargain isle - with super deals on clothing, small appliance, last minute gifts. And you won't go further in debit for your Christmas shopping, since they take cash or debit card only. Read more at http://www.businessinsider.com/why-aldi-is-so-cheap-2015-4

Goodwill - There are 35 Goodwill stores in Middle Tennessee. For the location nearest you, visit http://giveit2goodwill.org/locations. They are all having their weekly SUPER SALE tomorrow (every Wednesday) - one of their clothing tag colors is available at 99 CENTS PER ITEM, and no sales tax is charged. Some items still have their retail tag, and others are lightly used. If you want a perfect presentation, take them the dry cleaners and they will fold them for perfect presentation as a gift!

And don't forget these other favorite bargain locations in otherwise pricey Franklin:
Habitat for Humanity "Restore" - home furnishings at 1725 Columbia Ave
Graceworks - boutique clothing and home furnishings at 104 Southeast Parkway (near Mack Hatcher)
ThriftSmart - pre-owned clothing and home furnishings 454 Downs Blvd in Franklin

May you have a wonderful Christmas, and be able to give thoughtful gifts as a reminder of the only gift that matters.

Bill Munson - don't hesitate to reach me with your additional ideas at bill.munson@kw.com

Pie in the Sky? or Boots on the Ground

We are fortunate in the current housing market - particularly in Middle Tennessee. Nashville now has (earned) the reputation of being The "It" City - the place to move. And we are seeing over 1000 new families a month here in Music City. In my nearby hometown of Franklin (less than 20 miles south of Nashville), we have the distinction of being the 14th fastest growing city in the United States.

That's good news for you if you're looking to Sell your Home - whether to downsize now that your children have moved away, or to take your new-found equity and move to a larger home for your growing family. But how do you price your home to take advantage of this fast-paced market?

It's unsettling to consider, but Buyers (and not you) determine the price of your home - even in a hot market. So consider this well - why do you want to sell? Are you "fishing" for the absolute highest price? Or do you need to sell more quickly to take advantage of this productive market? Remember, if your objective is to buy another home with those proceeds, sooner is better in a robust housing market. If a $300K home goes up $30,000 this year (a 10% gain), that $400K home goes up $40,000 (a similar 10%). So once you decide to Buy, it is better to move sooner than wait for the "absolute highest offer".

Yes, neighborhood matters. (You've heard it said: Location - location - location.) But at the end of the day it's Price that sells homes - particularly those in your neighborhood and nearby community. Often it's "price per square foot" that even gets a Buyer through your front door.

It doesn't cost you anything for a professional Realtor - yes, as a real estate professional I'd be happy to help you with this step at no charge or obligation - to show you what comparative houses have sold for in your area, as well as how long it took for them to sell. Then you will have the realistic information to make an Informed Decision... (you can reach me anytime at http://billmunson.kwrealty.com or bill.munson@kw.com)

If you are motivated to get an excellent price for your home, I have the tools at my fingertips and can help. Where do you prefer to spend your time? Do you want to spend the next several months Fishing? Or Moving and Unpacking in your new home?

P.S. Remember how I said that Buyers determine your home's price? Well here's the Really Good News - if you price your home right, you may experience what several Sellers are now experiencing - multiple offers at list price or higher! How's that for an incentive to list your home at the right price in the first place?