Sprague & Curtis Real Estate Blog

We understand that cats, dogs, and other pets are important parts of your family. Many of our real estate agents are pet owners. When we show Augusta homes for sale, we know how to find properties that have plenty of space for your furry friends.

Just like people, pets become attached to their homes. It can be difficult for them to accept the changes that come with a move. If you take extra steps to reduce their stress, you are less likely to encounter unusual problem behavior.

Here's how you can meet their needs better during your big move:

1. Prepare Your Pet for the Big Day
   Before making a final selection of a new home, be sure your pet has a collar with identification. Update any microchip tracking services and, if you are switching veterinarians, collect current vet records. If possible, keep your pet close by rather than using a boarding facility.

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Chances are one of your New Year's resolutions involved getting healthier in 2020. Luckily, there are many places that are perfect for your fitness goals. Our real estate agents recommend the following gyms where you can do all the exercises your heart desires.   

1. Crossfit Casco Bay - 79 Leighton Rd, Augusta, ME 04330
   Crossfit Casco Bay isn't for the faint of heart. If you have the will. If you have the courage. If you have the indomitable desire to conquer every obstacle in the path as you look at Augusta homes for sale, then you might make the cut. When you sign-up, they will help you shape up and shave off those unwanted holiday pounds. Crossfit is one of the most rigorous regimens in the country and has a proven record of generating incredible results.   

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The Kennebec Valley is known far and wide for its splendid scenery, but its best-kept secret might be the wealth of local dairies and cheeseries we have at our fingertips. And with National Cheese Lover's Day coming up on January 20th, our real estate agents are thrilled to share some of their favorite local destinations for fantastic cheese in the Kennebec Valley. 

• Winter Hill Farm - 35 Hill Farm Rd., Freeport, ME 04032
  With a philosophy of eco-friendly farming practices and respectful treatment of their animals, Winter Hill Farm is a great place to get your guilt-free cheese fix this winter. The farm is nestled among the wooded hills and rolling farmland just outside Freeport, and only minutes away from these Freeport homes for sale. Their offerings include fresh, bloomy rind, washed rind, and aged raw milk cheeses, all handmade in small batches by master cheesemakers. 

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Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint in your home. Adding a coat of paint is an affordable and accessible way to make your home extra enticing to potential buyers.

If you're planning on selling your home in 2020, you might want to consider getting your paintbrush ready. 

Our real estate agents have seven cost-effective painting projects to help you sell your home in 2020.

1. Understand Neutrals
   Grandma's turquoise farmhouse might be the talk of the neighborhood, but it won't be the top choice for new family offers. Stick with a neutral palette when repainting your interior or exterior. Bright colors are most often a personal choice, and it will be unlikely to find a shopper with the same taste in orange as yourself. A neutral color offers potential buyers a blank canvas they can make their own. 

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Deciding to buy a home can be daunting, but educating yourself about what's involved can help you understand what to expect. Our REALTORS® guide clients through the process every day and share some tips to make your home buying journey a breeze.  

Decide What You Want and Need

Think about what you'd like in a house today and in the future. Are you planning to have a family and want a big yard for kids and pets? Is a garage a requirement for you? Write down everything you want and need and start checking out your local real estate market online. It's important to look at the area as a whole—it's always a good idea to buy in a neighborhood where property values will most likely appreciate.

Get Your Finances In Order

First, you'll need to save for a down payment. Generally, a down payment should be about 20 percent, but can be as low as 10, 5 or even 0 percent for certain types of mortgages like FHA and VA loans. When you feel confident that you've saved enough, check your credit. Annual Credit Report.com offers a free yearly credit report from the three major reporting agencies, Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Making sure your credit is in order can help to ensure you get a decent interest rate. 

Also, get pre-approved by a lender before you start looking at Augusta homes for sale. To do a pre-approval, lenders will review your credit report, income, and other finances. They will then issue a letter stating the amount for which you've been pre-approved. Keep in mind that pre-approval is not the same thing as being approved for a mortgage loan. When you're ready to do that, make sure you choose at least three with competitive rates.

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