Friday, March 30, 2018

Housing Market Overview

Just a few months into 2018 and the housing market is already heating up.  According to the National Association of Realtors, sales of existing homes are up over 3% and new construction is being purchased almost as soon as construction begins.
The majority of sales were in the South where numbers were up 6.6% according to economists at Reuters.
Homes are not on the market long! In February, the average days on market was 37. Forty-six percent of homes sold last month were on the market for less than 30 days.
The Federal Reserve increased interest rates with an expected two more increases by the end of the year. Buyers looking to enter the market are trying to do so before the other mortgage rate increases.
Inventory remains low with new construction being snapped up quickly! The number of new home starts in February increased dramatically – up from its previous high in 2008.
Tight inventory and increasing interest rates can make the cost of entering the housing market higher.  However buyers with a home to sell are often getting higher prices on their existing properties.  Entering the market before inventory decreases and interest rates rise is a great way to get ahead of higher costs! The time to buy is now! 
Contact us today! candcbuilders.com (803) 736 5008


Friday, March 23, 2018

The Basics of Window Treatments

One of the first things you’ll want to do when moving into your new home is putting up window treatments for privacy and décor.

There are many options when it comes to how you dress your windows. Here are just a few you may want to consider.

Blinds:
There are several types of blinds. Some of the most popular are:
Roman Blinds (Or Shades) – A more upscale window dressing made of folds of fabric. Perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.

Wood or Faux-Wood Blinds – Horizontal slats that pull up and down. Great for privacy and light control. Different widths to choose from to create different looks.

Shutters – Interior shutters that fit inside the window frame. Creates a luxurious look with a southern flair! Perfect for dining rooms or kitchens.

Curtains Vs. Drapes
Drapes are similar to curtains but are typically more formal. They are often lined and come with a string or rod pull for easy opening and closing.
Blackout curtains are a great addition to any bedroom – especially kids rooms when daytime naps are still needed.

If you love to DIY your home décor, drop cloths provide a blank canvas for your artistic expression. There are many no-sew tutorials online including this one:
https://www.thedesigntwins.com/how-to-make-no-sew-drop-cloth-curtains/

Whatever you choose – window treatments provide privacy, energy efficiency and style for your new home!

http://candcbuilders.com/

Monday, March 19, 2018

Spring Lawn Prep


Warmer weather and longer days may be beckoning you back outside after a long winter.  It’s time to start thinking about spring lawn care and how to prepare your yard for the upcoming growing season. Here are a few things you can be doing now to encourage a lush, green lawn.
1.     Though there may not be leaves on the ground this time around, get the rake back out and start raking your lawn again. This will remove any thatch which is dead grass or leaves that may have compacted over the winter.
2.     Now is a good time to put down a weed killer – before the weeds have really had a chance to start growing.
3.     It may be tempting to fertilize as well but don’t start too early. It’s better to wait until April or May for warm season grasses.
4.     Address bare spots in your yard by putting down seed. Be sure to choose the right type of seed for your weather and amount of sunlight. Once the seed is down, water thoroughly to ensure growth.
5.     Time to tune up the lawn mower! Now is the time to clean your lawn mower, sharpen the blades and replace the oil. Having a properly working lawn mower will make the mowing season much easier!
Following these lawn care steps in the Spring will help create a lush and healthy lawn this summer.  For more information consult a local landscaping company with expertise in your local lawn care.
http://www.candcbuilders.com/

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Moving With Pets


When you’re planning a move into your new home – there’s so much to think about.  From hiring movers to clearing out clutter, changing your address to thinking about furniture placement.  It’s understandable that you might not think about moving one of your most prized treasures – your pet!
Pets are perceptive and understand that changes are taking place in their home.  Here are a few ways to ease the stress during the transition and plan for the big day.
Try to pack up the pet’s things last. If they typically spend time in one room of the house, leave that one to be packed up last and don’t keep boxes in their usual hang out spaces.
If a move will require your pet to spend some time in a crate – get them familiar with that space again if they don’t spend much time there. Have occasional meals in the crate or go for short road trips in the crate so the moving day won’t come as a complete shock.
On moving day – try to find someone who can keep your pets. This will prevent concerns about them running away while doors are open and furniture is being moved. If it’s not possible to have the pets at a different home, keep them in a locked room and peek in for frequent checks.
Once you’re in your new home, your pet will need to investigate the new surroundings to get comfortable. Ease this transition by introducing your pets to one room at a time.  Have their food and toys in that one room and use this as a home base they can become easily comfortable with.  When they are ready to explore more, leave some doors shut so that your pet doesn’t become overwhelmed in a completely new space. Introduce just a few rooms at a time.
With a little understanding and patience, the whole family will be adjusting to the move in no time!
http://candcbuilders.com/

Monday, March 5, 2018

Visit Our Booth at The Carolina Classic Home and Garden Show


The 52nd Annual Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show will be held at the SC State Fairgrounds Friday, March 9 through Sunday, March 11, 2018. The show is hosted by the Building Industry Association of Central South Carolina (BIA) and presented by Clyde Nettles Roofing.
The Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show is the largest and only locally-produced home and garden exhibition in the Midlands. Over 200 construction, home improvement, and outdoor product and service exhibits fill the Cantey, Goodman and Ellison buildings plus outdoor areas. Come see a Tiny Home, enjoy fair-style foods and craft beer each day of the show. Learn more.... http://www.biaofcentralsc.com/calendar-and-events/home-and-garden-show.html

http://candcbuilders.com/